defiance

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.

But a court that tolerates such defiance eventually forfeits the right to demand obedience.

From Slate • Apr. 23, 2026

"I'm still here," he says towards the end, with a shrug that lands somewhere between defiance and a punchline, "and I am going to do whatever I want".

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

North of the pavement, the North Algodones Dunes Wilderness holds a quieter terrain, where sunflower, ephedra and honey mesquite anchor the sand in subtle defiance of the wind.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

But his defiance prompted a lengthy news cycle in which the 72-year-old coach was cooked on social media, his actions dissected under umbrellas of sportsmanship, race, and mansplaining.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

That had taken all the defiance they had in them.

From "Among the Hidden" by Margaret Peterson Haddix