defensive

/dɪfˈɛnsɪv/

/dɪˈfɛnsɪv/

[adjective] [noun]

defensive

[ADJECTIVE]

designed or used in a way that provides a person or thing with protection against attack

antonyms : offensive

attempting to justify or defend in speech or writing

synonyms : justificative

justificatory

Defensive

[NOUN]

an attitude of defensiveness (especially in the phrase `on the defensive')

synonyms : defensive attitude

Examples

1. He gets his back up and becomes defensive whenever someone questions his work.

2. If you confront him, he will add fuel to the fire by getting defensive.

3. During a heated argument with his partner, Tom realized he was getting defensive and not really listening.

4. If you are dealing with a difficult or angry person, it's important to listen to their concerns and try to find common ground, rather than getting defensive or confrontational, as pouring oil on the fire is not the way to quench it.