adjective
defensible
dih-FEN-suh-bul/dɪˈfensəbl/
Capable of resisting a challenge or attack.
Her decision is defensible because it protects the most vulnerable patients.
Etymology
Defending extends from warding off physical attack to answering objections with words. Something defensible can therefore be protected from harm or supported by reasons that justify it.
In context
But I don't think that's a morally defensible position.
giving the state more defensible borders
More examples
- The evidence gives us a defensible basis for changing the policy.
- The hilltop offers a defensible position against an approaching army.
- That explanation becomes less defensible as new facts emerge.
Forms
defensible
defend verb — Protect against attack or justify with reasons.
defensibility noun — The ability to withstand criticism or attack.
Similar words
- justifiable
- Emphasizes having sound reasons rather than protection against attack.
- tenable
- Usually describes arguments or positions that withstand criticism.