to be on the defensive

1 definition found

to be on the defensive - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Defensive \De*fen"sive\, n.
     That which defends; a safeguard.
     [1913 Webster]
  
           Wars preventive, upon just fears, are true defensives.
                                                    --Bacon.
     [1913 Webster]
  
     To be on the defensive, To stand on the defensive, to be
        or stand in a state or posture of defense or resistance,
        in opposition to aggression or attack.
        [1913 Webster]