Able to provide a defence; defensive. Of a building, fortification, location, etc.: that provides a defence; capable of offering protection…

That defends against attack, injury, or harm; intended or used for defence; protective.

That serves as a defence against criticism or disagreement; justificatory. Also: that rejects criticism; = defensive, adj. 7.

Of arms and armour: Capable of being used for defence. Scottish.

= defensive, adj.

= defending, adj. (in various senses). Now somewhat rare.

Of a thing: that protects or defends against damage or harm; protective. Frequently in defensative plaster: (Medicine) an ointment or plaster…

That provides protection or defence against attack, injury, or some other harm; protective. Obsolete.

Defensive. Obsolete. rare.