Of-fĕn'sive1, a.
a. [It. offensivo, Sp. ofensivo, Fr. offensif. See OFFEND.]
Sense 1. Causing displeasure or some degree of anger; displeasing; as, rude behavior is offensive to men; good breeding forbids us to use offensive words.
Sense 2. Giving pain or unpleasant sensations; disagreeable; as, an offensive taste or smell; an offensive sight; discordant sounds are offensive to the ear.
Sense 3. Causing evil or injury; injurious.
It is an excellent opener for the liver, but offensive to the stomach. Bacon.
Sense 4. Used in attack; assailant;—opposed to defensive; as, an offensive weapon or engine.
Sense 5. Making the first attack; assailant; invading;—opposed to defensive; as, an offensive war.
League offensive and defensive, a league that requires both or all parties to make war together against a nation, and each party to defend the other in case of being attacked.
Synonyms—Displeasing; disagreeable; distasteful; obnoxious; abhorrent; disgusting; impertinent; rude; saucy; reproachful; opprobrious; insulting; insolent; abusive; scurrilous; assailant; attacking; invading.