How Do You Spell DEFENSIVENESS?

Pronunciation: [dɪfˈɛnsɪvnəs] (IPA)

Defensiveness is a word that describes the behavior of someone who is overly protective and reactive when they feel criticized or attacked. The correct spelling of this word is dɪˈfɛnsɪvnəs. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound like in the word "did." The second syllable has a schwa sound, which is the unstressed vowel sound in the word "the." The final syllable is pronounced with a stress on the second to last syllable and ends with the sound "nəs."

DEFENSIVENESS Meaning and Definition

1. Defensiveness refers to a psychological and emotional state characterized by a strong inclination to guard oneself against perceived threats, criticism, or potential harm. It is a reflexive response aimed at protecting one's self-esteem, image, or sense of personal security. When a person feels defensive, they may exhibit a range of behaviors and attitudes that are intended to deflect or counteract perceived attacks, challenges, or accusations.

   Defensiveness often manifests as a heightened sensitivity and reactive demeanor when faced with criticism, feedback, or conflict. It can result in a defensive person becoming guarded, resistant, or argumentative, as they attempt to shield themselves from perceived threats or judgments. This may include engaging in various defense mechanisms, such as denial, justification, blame-shifting, or minimizing the issue at hand.

   Defensiveness can hinder effective communication and interpersonal relationships. When individuals constantly feel the need to protect themselves, it can create a sense of tension, deflection, and mistrust in their interactions with others. Genuine dialogue and open conversation may be undermined as the focus shifts from understanding and resolving issues to self-preservation.

   Cultivating self-awareness and empathy can be instrumental in managing defensiveness. By recognizing and understanding the underlying causes of defensiveness, individuals can learn to respond more constructively to criticism or conflict. This involves acknowledging one's reactions and insecurities, actively listening to others without becoming defensive, and seeking alternative perspectives. Ultimately, reducing defensiveness can contribute to healthier relationships, personal growth, and improved problem-solving abilities.

Top Common Misspellings for DEFENSIVENESS *

• defensivness 100%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for DEFENSIVENESS

• defensivenss
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• d4fensiveness
• d3fensiveness
• dedensiveness
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• degensiveness
• defensivenesss
• defensieness
• defenciveness
• defensivnesse

Etymology of DEFENSIVENESS

The word defensiveness has its origins in the Latin word defensio, which means a defense or a protection. It is derived from the verb defendere, which means to ward off or to defend. The suffix -iveness is added to the root word defensive, forming the noun defensiveness.

Similar spelling words for DEFENSIVENESS

• devonshire,
• defenceless,
• defensively,
• defenseless,
• defenselessness,
• defensible,
• defenestration,
• defenestrate.

Plural form of DEFENSIVENESS is DEFENSIVENESSES