defensive
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Instead of putting American forces in the Persian Gulf, where they are vulnerable to attack, the U.S. has set up a defensive zone, or “net,” in the Gulf of Oman.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 24, 2026
A former wide receiver at William & Mary, Tomlin was the defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings when he was hired by the Steelers at age 34 in January 2007.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026
In addition, Moises Caicedo was said to be covering too much ground following a shift from a double pivot - two defensive midfielders - to a single pivot.
From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026
Chesney liked the way his quarterbacks adjusted to facing new defensive schemes.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026
“Right? And as soon as you call a dude on it, they get all hella defensive about it.”
From "Anger Is a Gift" by Mark Oshiro
Vocabulary lists containing defensive
ASVAB Word Knowledge
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ACT Reading Test: Words to Capture Tone, List 2
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Tone and Point of View, List 1
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