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.

This impaired their ability to send information about appropriate defensive responses to other parts of the brain.

From Science Daily • Apr. 4, 2026

But cracks began to appear around 2022–23, as back-to-back seasons without major silverware and early European exits sparked doubts over whether the club's famed defensive approach had grown predictable.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

Texas has succeeded this tournament with a lockdown defensive effort, but its shooting has gotten better throughout, led by Rori Harmon and Booker.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

Combine that with slowing U.S. economic growth, and it’s no wonder investors are getting defensive.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026

As Jake spoke, I watched David’s face and could almost feel the full range of his thoughts—starting with defensive anger and moving on to fear, then sadness, and finally horror.

From "Internment" by Samira Ahmed