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.
Financial markets are likely to remain defensive as the latest developments put an already fragile cease-fire at risk, said UOB’s global economics and markets research team.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026
He’s staying on the defensive until oil flows normalize, betting on companies with strong balance sheets and those involved in the AI infrastructure buildout, such as John Deere, Caterpillar, and HVAC-maker Johnson Controls.
From Barron's • Apr. 12, 2026
Phelia is a solid defensive forward who can shoot well for her position.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 12, 2026
Megan Jones replaced Stratford as England captain and stepped up with a strong defensive performance, picking up the player of the match.
From BBC • Apr. 11, 2026
To the Soviet leadership, put on the defensive by Reagan's belligerent rhetoric and by the suspicious information collected by Operation RYaN, the maneuvers seemed terrifyingly real.
From "Spies: The Secret Showdown Between America and Russia" by Marc Favreau
Vocabulary lists containing defensive
ASVAB Word Knowledge
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
ACT Reading Test: Words to Capture Tone, List 2
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
Tone and Point of View, List 1
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
