Of*fen"sive (?), n.
The state or posture of
one who offends or makes attack; aggressive attitude; the act of the attacking party; -- opposed to defensive.
To act on the offensive, to be the attacking party.
Of*fen"sive (?), a.
[Cf.F. offensif. See Offend.]
1. Giving offense; causing displeasure or resentment; displeasing; annoying;
as, offensive
words.
2. Giving
pain or unpleasant sensations; disagreeable; revolting; noxious; as, an offensive smell; offensive sounds. "Offensive to the stomach." Bacon.
3. Making the first attack; assailant; aggressive;
hence, used in attacking; --
opposed to defensive;
as, an offensive war; offensive weapons.
League offensive and defensive, a leaque that requires all the parties to it to make war together against any foe, and to defend one
another if attacked.
Syn. -- Displeasing; disagreeable; distasteful; obnoxious; abhorrent; disgusting; impertinent; rude; saucy; reproachful; opprobrious; insulting; insolent; abusive; scurrilous; assailant; attacking; invading.
-- Of*fen"sive*ly, adv. -- Of*fen"sive*ness, n.
Hear it pronounced