Choose the perfect synonym or antonym for the word Acting to protect oneself from harm or criticism.
Defensive
/dɪˈfɛnsɪv/Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Examples:
Our first natural reaction is to be defensive.
We have them on the defensive.
I start getting defensive.
Etymology:
Derived from Old French defensif, stemming from Latin defensivus, meaning to ward off, guard against harm.
Usage Statistics:
29 mentions per 1 million words 
Hint: Frequency according to COCA
Often
Hint: Frequency according to COCA
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