Search Dictionary
Definition of defensiveness

defensiveness

/dɪˈfɛnsɪvnəs/
de · fen · sive · ness
Adverb:defensively
•
Adjective:defensive
JUMP TO:

defensiveness Lexical Profile

defensiveness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality or state of being overly sensitive to criticism and quick to justify or protect oneself against perceived slights or challenges.

Example

"His immediate defensiveness during the performance review made it difficult to have a constructive conversation."

2

The quality or strategy of prioritizing protection and security over attack or risk-taking, as in sports or economics.

Example

"The coach was criticized for the team's excessive defensiveness in the second half of the championship match."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for defensiveness
Antonyms
View all antonyms for defensiveness

• Rhymes for defensiveness

• Nearby Words

defensibly
defensive
defensively
defensiveness
defer
deferable
deference

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Defensiveness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/defensiveness
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.