DEFENSIVELY

Pronunciation (US): (GB):

I. (adverb)

Sense 1

Meaning:

In a defensive manner

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

Classified under:

Adverbs

Antonym:

offensively (in an aggressive manner)

Pertainym:

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

Sense 2

Meaning:

In an apologetic and defensive manner

Example:

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