defy — to openly resist or refuse to obey
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to openly resist or refuse to obey
Pronunciation (IPA): /dɪˈfaɪ/
Example Sentences
- My cat defies all attempts to give him a bath - he becomes a furry tornado!
- Students who defy the dress code will face consequences.
- The old building defies architectural logic but somehow stays standing.
defy
VERB[/dɪˈfaɪ/]
to openly resist or refuse to obey
The lone knight dared to defy the king's cruel command in front of the whole court.
Defy the storm and fly so high!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Old French 'defier', meaning to challenge or renounce, derived from the prefix 'de-' (away from) combined with 'fier' (to trust or have faith in), ultimately from Latin 'fidus' meaning faithful.
Breakdown
de- (away from, reverse) + fy (from fier, to trust/have faith) = defy (to refuse to trust/obey, to resist)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My cat defies all attempts to give him a bath - he becomes a furry tornado!”
“Students who defy the dress code will face consequences.”
“The old building defies architectural logic but somehow stays standing.”
“My smartphone defies my understanding - I still can't figure out half the features!”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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