defensivo
“defensivo” means “defensive” in Spanish (used for protection or describing a wary attitude).
defensive
Also: protective
📝 In Action
El equipo de fútbol tiene un plan muy defensivo para el partido de hoy.
A2The soccer team has a very defensive plan for today's game.
No te enfades, no lo dije para que te pusieras a la defensiva.
B1Don't get angry; I didn't say it to make you get defensive.
Construyeron un muro defensivo alrededor de la ciudad antigua.
B2They built a defensive wall around the ancient city.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: defensivo
Question 1 of 3
How do you say 'She is on the defensive'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'defensivus', which comes from 'defendere', meaning to strike away, ward off, or protect.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can 'defensivo' be used for people?
Yes! You can use it to describe someone's personality or their current mood if they are acting like they are under attack.
Is 'defensivo' the same as 'defensor'?
No. 'Defensivo' is a describing word (adjective), while 'defensor' is the person who does the defending (noun).
Does 'defensivo' always change to 'defensiva' for women?
Yes, if you are describing a woman as a 'defensive person' (una persona defensiva). However, in the fixed phrase 'a la defensiva,' it is always feminine.