offensive

Word parts

offense + -ive

Pronunciation

• IPA ^(key): /əˈfɛnsɪv/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

Adjective

Positive offensive

Comparative more offensive

Superlative most offensive

1. Something offensive is mean, insulting, and unpleasant.

   He said something so offensive to her that she cried.

   Most feminists find pornography offensive.

   She noticed an offensive smell from the blocked drain.

2. (team sports) If something is offensive, it has to do with a play where the team is trying to score.

   The offensive coordinator is responsible for ordering all rushing plays.

Antonyms

• defensive

Noun

Singular offensive

Plural offensives

1. (military) An attack.

   The Marines today launched a major offensive.

2. (uncountable) In a position of attacking or being able to attack.

   He took the offensive in the press, accusing his opponent of corruption.

Related words

• offence
• offend