DEFENSIVE (2)

defensive (2). Defensive, n. a safeguard, guard, state of defense

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De‐fen″sive, n. That which defends; a safeguard. Wars preventive, upon just fears, are true defensives. Bacon. 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.