Definitions:

1. an attitude of defensiveness noun
   • I was on the defensive when I heard that people thought I was twenty years older than I really was.
2. attempting to justify or defend in speech or writing adjective
   • The peerreviewed essay is rather defensive and attempts to refute all of the recently spread rumors concerning the study.
3. intended or appropriate for defending against or deterring aggression or attack adjective
   • The defensive turrets located around the castle walls were the primary factor that aided in the winning of the battle.

Synonyms:

• defensive attitude
• justificative

NearBy Words:

• defensively
• defensiveness