Meaning of the word defy in English

What does defy mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

defy

US /dɪˈfaɪ/

UK /dɪˈfaɪ/

openly resist or refuse to obey

Example:

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A child who defies his parents.

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The students defied the school rules.

Synonym:

resist disobey flout contravene go against

appear to be challenging (someone) to do something impossible

Example:

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The bridge seemed to defy gravity.

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Her beauty defies description.

Synonym:

baffle elude escape frustrate confound