Definitions

defy

[dih-fahy, dee-] / dɪˈfaɪ, di- /

VERB

challenge, frustrate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

confront disregard elude flout ignore mock oppose provoke resist ridicule spurn thwart violate withstand

STRONG

baffle beard brave contemn dare defeat deride despise face foil front gibe insult repel repulse scorn slight stick venture

WEAK

face off fly in face of hang tough hurl defiance at make my day outdare stick fast take one on

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid assist flatter help note pay attention praise regard respect

STRONG

abet admire attract commend compliment encourage give up hide like love

WEAK

give in obey surrender yield

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.

By avoiding clichés and featuring a mostly Black cast, Rae’s mission for Hoorae’s new venture is simple: defy expectations and tell a great story.

From Los Angeles Times • May 28, 2026

In other words, these are not the types of judges you would expect to look for reasons to distinguish or defy Supreme Court orders.

From Slate • May 26, 2026

As it turns out, even companies that defy the laws of gravity are bound by the laws of economics.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

He also featured in his local newspaper the Wolverhampton Express & Star numerous times growing up as he continued to defy expectations.

From BBC • May 18, 2026

He fulfilled his obligations as a “singular character” so capably that he seemed to defy the republican tradition itself.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis

Vocabulary lists containing defy

The Cay

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I Am Malala

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The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

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