Meaning & Definition of word "Defy"

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.