Another Word For Defy

Meaning

The word "defy" means to openly resist or refuse to obey someone or something. When you defy an authority or a rule, you challenge it or stand against it boldly. It often implies a sense of bravery or rebellion in facing opposition.

Synonyms

• Challenge
• Resist
• Confront
• Oppose
• Disobey

Antonyms

• Comply
• Submit
• Obey
• Conform
• Yield

Etymology

The word "defy" originated from the Middle English word "defien," which comes from the Old French "defier," meaning "to challenge." The roots can be traced back to the Latin word "defiare," which means "to challenge" or "to declare."

Examples

1. The students decided to defy the school dress code by wearing colorful hairstyles.
2. She chose to defy expectations and pursue a career in art instead of following the family tradition of medicine.
3. During the protest, the crowd began to defy the orders of the police and marched forward.
4. His willingness to defy the norms of society earned him both admiration and criticism.
5. The athletes trained hard to defy the odds and win the championship despite being the underdogs.