DEFENSIVELY

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

IPA (US):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does defensively mean? 

• DEFENSIVELY (adverb)
  The adverb DEFENSIVELY has 2 senses:

1. in an apologetic and defensive manner

2. in a defensive manner

  Familiarity information: DEFENSIVELY used as an adverb is rare.

 Dictionary entry details 

• DEFENSIVELY (adverb)

Sense 1

Meaning:

In an apologetic and defensive manner

Context example:

'I felt it better you should know,' said Sir Cedric defensively

Pertainym:

defensive (attempting to justify or defend in speech or writing)

Sense 2

Meaning:

In a defensive manner

Context example:

the general conviction that our side is in the right and acting defensively over what Russians call the German question and Americans the Berlin crisis

Antonym:

offensively (in an aggressive manner)

Pertainym:

defensive (intended or appropriate for defending against or deterring aggression or attack)