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Definitions

defer

[dih-fur] / dɪˈfɜr /
VERB
hold off, put off
Synonyms
STRONGEST
adjourn delay extend hold up postpone prolong set aside shelve stall suspend waive
STRONG
block detain hinder impede intermit lengthen obstruct procrastinate prorogue protract remit retard slow stay table
WEAK
give rain check hang fire lay over put on back burner put on hold put on ice
Antonyms
STRONGEST
advance allow carry out continue do expedite forward further maintain shorten
STRONG
abbreviate aid assist encourage facilitate help let go promote push support
WEAK
force forge hasten hurry
VERB
yield
Synonyms
STRONGEST
adjust admit agree bow submit
STRONG
accede accommodate acquiesce adapt assent buckle capitulate cave comply concede cringe fawn knuckle kowtow obey succumb truckle
WEAK
give in to knuckleunder
Antonyms
STRONGEST
dispute dissent fight refuse
STRONG
deny disagree disarrange disobey protest reject
WEAK
advance expedite force forge forward hasten hurry

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It is a small-cap company selling an essential service that perhaps the consumer can defer, but can’t cancel.

From Barron's • Apr. 9, 2026

There is every indication that Congress wanted to defer to the states.

From Slate • Mar. 21, 2026

Her home, health and car insurance have all increased, as has her mortgage, but she can’t defer her student loan payments because she must stay current on them to obtain public service loan forgiveness.

From Salon • Mar. 17, 2026

India also said it would defer previously scheduled talks to finalise a recent agreement.

From BBC • Feb. 24, 2026

He was terribly proud, sometimes absurdly proud, and he refused to defer to any man.

From "Farewell to Manzanar" by Jeanne Houston

Vocabulary lists containing defer

The Great Gatsby

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"The Crucible" -- Vocabulary from all 4 Acts

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"The Crucible" -- Vocabulary from Act 1

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!