Skip to content
Word ChallengeWord Challenge

Defensive

9 lettersadjectivecommon

Updated June 2026

Definition

Intended to defend or protect against attack or criticism. It can describe protective behaviour, attitudes, or military positions.

The team adopted a defensive strategy after taking the lead.

Pronunciation

IPA

/dɪˈfɛnsɪv/

Syllables

de·fen·sive

Related Words

Synonyms

protectiveguardedcautiousshielding

Antonyms

Word Game Tips

🟩

Wordle

Nine letters with repeated 'e' - vowel positioning crucial

🔤

Scrabble

Worth 15 points; the 'v' and 'f' provide good scoring potential

Words Related to Defensive

Words you can make from Defensive

Shorter words formed from the letters in “defensive”.

Explore Similar Words

Try These Tools

Dictionary References

Look up defensive in an authoritative dictionary for full definitions, pronunciation, and etymology.

Word Challenge

Ready to test your word skills?

Download Word Challenge for unlimited word puzzles, a fresh Daily Challenge, and head-to-head multiplayer. Guess the hidden word in six tries or fewer!

Download Free