defy

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.

In the last year, the U.S. economy has seemed to defy gravity, withstanding a chaotic trade war, shocks to the labor supply, and wild swings in the stock market.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

Their ability to enact change depended on their willingness to defy current custom and mores.

From Salon • Mar. 28, 2026

But somehow, I have managed to defy the odds, becoming the rare outlier to not only protect my job from the A.I. monster’s bite but profit from its terrors.

From Slate • Mar. 20, 2026

"These ultra-low-density super-puff planets are rare, and they defy conventional understanding of how gas giants form. And if explaining how one formed wasn't difficult enough, this system has three!"

From Science Daily • Mar. 18, 2026

But soon there were few left in Minas Tirith who had the heart to stand up and defy the hosts of Mordor.

From "The Return of the King" by J.R.R. Tolkien