1. plural of defensive; things, strategies, or positions designed to protect or defend against attack or harm
Usage: often used in military, sports, or strategic contexts
2. in medicine, substances or treatments that strengthen the body's ability to resist disease
Usage: archaic or specialized medical usage

1. serving to defend or protect; intended to resist or ward off attack
Usage: used as plural form or attributive modifier

Examples

• The team's defensives were strong enough to prevent the opposing offense from scoring.
• Military strategists debated which defensives would be most effective against the new threat.
• She adopted defensives in her argument, focusing on refuting the critic's points rather than making new claims.
• The castle's defensives included high walls and watchtowers.
• In chess, understanding key defensives can help you survive aggressive attacks.
• The company invested in cybersecurity defensives to protect customer data.