self-defensive

adjective

self-de·​fen·​sive ˌself-di-ˈfen(t)-siv How to pronounce self-defensive (audio)
: of, relating to, or given to self-defense
a self-defensive person
a self-defensive attitude

Examples of self-defensive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Kuwait urgently wanted the men back to train more tankers and establish a credible, sufficient self-defensive capacity. Paul Iddon, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1701, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-defensive was in 1701

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Cite this Entry

“Self-defensive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-defensive. Accessed 17 Jun. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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