Meaning & Definition of word "Defy"

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    Defy

    /dɪˈfaɪ/

    verb:

    • 1. to openly resist or refuse to obey.
      • Example: The protestors chose to defy the government’s restrictions on assembly.
    • 2. to challenge or withstand successfully.
      • Example: She managed to defy the odds and complete the marathon despite her injury.
    • 3. to be impossible to achieve or overcome.
      • Example: The beauty of the landscape seemed to defy description.

    Etymology

    Middle English, from Old French 'defier', from Latin 'defiare'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    defy convention:

    To reject or challenge traditional methods or norms.

    defy the odds:

    To succeed against the likelihood of failure.

    defy authority:

    To openly resist or disobey those in power.

    Related Words

    defiance:

    Open resistance; bold disobedience.

    defiant:

    Showing defiance; resistant.

    defyingly:

    In a manner that shows defiance.

    Slang Meanings of defy

    Meaning: To reject or disregard.

    Example Sentence: He totally defied the rules at the party.

    Meaning: To show boldness or nerve.

    Example Sentence: She defied the odds and showed them what she's made of.