(archaic) That which serves to protect or defend.

plural of defensative

Intended for defence; protective. / Intended to deter attack. / Performed so as to minimise risk. / Displaying an inordinate sensitivity to criticism or intrusion; oversensitive; thin-skinned.

A means, attitude or position of defense.

The action of defending or protecting from attack, danger, or injury. / (team sports) A strategy and tactics employed to prevent the other team from scoring; contrasted with offense.

(of an installation etc) capable of being defended against armed attack / (of an argument etc) capable of being justified

Prepared to defend or protect against criticism, attack or aggression. / (sports) defending; playing a defensive game

plural of defense

In a defensive manner.

In a defensible manner. / Defendably