1 too quick to protect yourself from being criticized: --
2 in a sports event, trying to prevent the opposing player or players from scoring points, goals, etc.: --
3 ready to protect yourself because you are expecting to be criticized or attacked --
5 trying to prevent the opposing player or players from scoring points: --
The anti-personnel mines were laid around the town as a defensive measure.
Some of the tunnels in the cliff are natural, some were carved out by soldiers for defensive purposes.
The tone of the feminist speakers suggested they were adopting a rather defensive posture.
Research involving the use of biological warfare agents will be used for defensive purposes.