WordGarden.iodefy
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /dɪfˈaɪ/
US
- /dɪˈfaɪ/
Meanings
Verb
to openly resist or refuse to obey a rule, demand, or authority
to be beyond explanation, belief, or description
to dare or challenge someone to do something
Beyond the definition
To defy something means to openly resist it, challenge authority, or refuse to obey. A rebellious teenager might defy their parents' rules, while a small country might defy a powerful neighbor's demands. It usually means acting in opposition, often with courage or determination. Think of David defying Goliath—a smaller force boldly challenging a much larger one! You can defy expectations, gravity, logic, or anything that tries to hold you back.
Imagine a sturdy oak tree standing firm against a fierce storm. The tree defies the wind's power, refusing to bend or break despite the howling gusts. That image captures the essence of "defy" – a forceful resistance or challenge. To defy isn't just about disagreeing; it's about actively opposing something, often in the face of immense pressure or authority.
Historically, "defy" comes from the Old French defier, which originally meant "to renounce faith" or "to challenge." This sense of breaking a bond or standing your ground is still present today. You might defy a doctor's orders (though not recommended!), defy convention by choosing an unconventional career path, or even defy the laws of physics with daring inventions.
The target of defiance can be anything: authority figures ("He defied his boss's instructions"), expectations ("She defied everyone who said she couldn't do it"), or even abstract concepts like fate ("They defied destiny"). It often implies a sense of boldness, courage, and a willingness to take risks. Sometimes, defying something is seen as admirable—a stand against injustice. Other times, it's seen as stubborn rebellion or disrespect.
So, whether it's a small act of disobedience or a grand challenge to the status quo, defy speaks to the power of resistance and the human spirit's ability to push back against limitations.
Examples
- 1
Family conflict
She defied her parents and went to the concert anyway.
- 2
Public rules
Several restaurants defied the citywide ban and stayed open.
- 3
Unexpected success
Against all predictions, the small film defied expectations and became a hit.
- 4
Hard to explain
The cause of the disease has defied explanation for decades.
- Phrasedefy explanation
be very hard to explain
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Aging
At 82, he still hikes every weekend and seems to defy age.
- Phrasedefy age
seem much younger or stronger than expected
- 6
Impossible movement
The dancer's final jump looked as if it defied gravity.
- Phrasedefy gravity
seem to move in an impossible way
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- defyverb
Forms
- defying-ing formverb
- defiedpast tenseverb
- defiesverb