# defensible

/dɪˈfɛnsəbəɫ/ (US) · /dɪfˈɛnsəbəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/defensible
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

able to be explained or justified in a way that makes sense. You use this to describe an idea or action that is not obviously wrong or silly.

For teachers: capable of being justified or explained in a way that is reasonable or logical. Often used to describe positions, arguments, or actions that withstand critical scrutiny.

## Examples

- The manager's decision to raise prices is not very defensible.
- The lawyer argued that the client's actions were defensible under the specific circumstances of the case.
- While the initial strategy seemed flawed, the team eventually provided enough data to make their approach defensible in the face of external criticism.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.