Défiant (en. Defiant)

/de.fjɑ̃/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
adjective
One who expresses a challenge or resistance.
His defiant attitude shows that he is not easily impressed.
Son attitude défiant montre qu'il ne se laisse pas impressionner.
One who behaves in a provocative manner.
He has a defiant look towards those who are watching him.
Il a un regard défiant envers ceux qui l'observent.
Refers to someone who doubts the intentions of others.
She is defiant towards new people she meets.
Elle se montre défiant envers les nouvelles personnes qu'elle rencontre.

Etymology

From the verb to defy, derived from the Latin 'defiare' which means 'to challenge'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

defiant look
A look that displays a willingness to challenge.
regard défiant
defiant attitude
Behavior indicating distrust or provocation.
attitude défiant
to be defiant
To adopt a provocative posture or behavior.
se montrer défiant

Related Words

challenge
A challenge or provocation.
défi
distrust
A feeling of distrust towards others.
défiance
to defy
To challenge someone, invite them to a challenge.
défier

Slang Meanings

To be arrogant or provocative.
He is so defiant that he does not hesitate to provoke his teachers.
Il est tellement défiant qu'il n'hésite pas à provoquer ses professeurs.
To be in opposition to authorities or conventions.
In his debates, he often adopts a defiant posture towards established rules.
Dans ses débats, il adopte souvent une posture défiant vis-à-vis des règles établies.