🇬🇧🇪🇸 defensive - defensivo : English Lesson

Meaning of "defensive" ("defensivo"), detailed definition, and a short video lesson below.

Defensive means being protective or guarding against attack or criticism. It often involves actions or attitudes aimed at defending oneself from perceived threats or challenges. People or things that are defensive are quick to protect themselves or their interests.

Watch and listen to this English flashcard to understand the word in more detail, with an easy example sentence.

Dad got defensive when I said he snores—he yelled, “I DO NOT!” in his sleep.

My little brother got defensive when I caught him eating my candy—he said, “It’s not yours if it’s in my mouth.”

The robot vacuum got defensive and tried to chase me when I said it missed a spot.

My hamster got defensive when I told him he eats too much—he stuffed even more food in his cheeks.

My uncle got defensive when we said he’s bad at golf—he blamed the wind, the grass, and the shape of the Earth.

At the park a child drops his ice cream; a barking dog runs close. He raises his hands in a defensive stance. The mother takes a defensive step, holding her bag as a defensive shield. The child makes a defensive face and gives a defensive laugh. The dog sniffs, then wags; they laugh, relieved.

This word is at the C1 level, which means it’s part of advanced English. It’s used in sophisticated conversations, professional settings, and academic discussions. Words at this level help you express yourself fluently and precisely in nuanced situations.

Expanding your English vocabulary is one of the best ways to improve your pronunciation, spelling, and confidence in English. Watch the video above to memorize the word, understand its meaning, and see example sentences in action. Discover related words to grow your vocabulary naturally. Add words to your playlist for stress-free, effective learning—anytime, anywhere! Watch, learn, repeat.