adj. & n.
--adj.
1. giving or meant or likely to give offence; insulting (offensive language).
2 disgusting, foul-smelling, nauseous, repulsive.
3 a aggressive, attacking. b (of a weapon) meant for use in attack.
--n.
1. an aggressive action or attitude (take the offensive).
2 an attack, an offensive campaign or stroke.
3 aggressive or forceful action in pursuit of a cause (a peace offensive).
Derivatives:
offensively adv. offensiveness n.
Etymology: F offensif -ive or med.L offensivus (as OFFENCE)