Meaning & Definition of word "Defeat"
Defeat
/dɪˈfiːt/
noun:
- 1. the act of losing a contest or being beaten
- Example: The champion's unexpected defeat shocked the fans.
- 2. a failure to achieve a desired goal or outcome
- Example: He faced defeat in the election despite his hard work and dedication.
- 3. the state of being defeated
- Example: After the defeat, the team regrouped and focused on their next match.
verb:
- 1. to lose to someone or something in a competition, election, or battle
- Example: The team aimed to defeat their rivals in the championship game.
- 2. to overcome or vanquish, as in a struggle or conflict
- Example: The army was able to defeat the enemy forces after a fierce battle.
- 3. to thwart or frustrate someone’s plans or ambitions
- Example: Their attempts to secure funding were defeated by the lack of evidence.
Etymology
●Middle English, from Old French 'defait', past participle of 'defaire', from Latin 'defacere' meaning to do away with.
Common Phrases and Expressions
face defeat:
To experience a loss or failure.
final defeat:
The ultimate loss in a series of contests or battles.
defeat the odds:
To overcome significant challenges or difficulties.
Related Words
defeated:
Having been overcome in a contest.
defeatism:
The belief that defeat is inevitable.
Slang Meanings of defeat
Meaning: Getting schooled
● Example Sentence: He really got schooled in that game.
Meaning: Getting wrecked
● Example Sentence: We totally got wrecked in that match.