DEFENSIVELY

defensively

(adverb) in a defensive manner; “the general conviction that our side is in the right and acting defensively over what Russians call the German question and Americans the Berlin crisis”

defensively

(adverb) in an apologetic and defensive manner; “‘I felt it better you should know,’ said Sir Cedric defensively”

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Etymology

Adverb

defensively (comparative more defensively, superlative most defensively)

In a defensive manner.

Source: Wiktionary

De*fen"sive*ly, adv.

Definition: On the defensive.

DEFENSIVE

De*fen"sive, a. Etym: [Cf. F. défensif.]

1. Serving to defend or protect; proper for defense; opposed to offensive; as, defensive armor. A moat defensive to a house. Shak.

2. Carried on by resisting attack or aggression; -- opposed to offensive; as, defensive war.

3. In a state or posture of defense. Milton.

De*fen"sive, n.

Definition: That which defends; a safeguard. Wars preventive, upon just fears, are true defensive. 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.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition