offensive

of-fen-sive · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    (adjective) Causing someone to feel hurt, upset, or insulted.

  2. 2.

    (adjective) Unpleasant or disagreeable to the senses.

  3. 3.

    (adjective) Relating to attack or aggression rather than defense.

  4. 4.

    (noun) A military attack or campaign.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    go on the offensive — To start attacking rather than defending
  • •
    take the offensive — To assume an attacking position
  • •
    offensive weapon — A weapon intended for attack
  • •
    charm offensive — A campaign to gain favor through charm and friendliness

Related words

Antonyms: complimentary, defensive, inoffensive, polite
See also: attack, defensive, offend, offense
Synonyms: abusive, attacking, insulting, objectionable, rude

Etymology

From Medieval Latin offensivus, from Latin offensa ("a striking against"), from offendere ("to strike against, offend").