Pronunciation: /dɪˈfaɪ/

Definitions of defy

noun a challenge or resistance

Example Sentences

A1 She showed great bravery and defy in the face of danger.

A2 The young boy's defiance of the rules landed him in trouble.

B1 The athlete's defiance of the odds led to a surprising victory.

B2 The artist's work defies traditional categorization, blending multiple styles.

C1 The scientist's groundbreaking research defies conventional wisdom.

C2 The musician's innovative compositions defy easy classification, drawing from a wide range of influences.

verb to resist or challenge openly and boldly

Example Sentences

A1 She defies her parents by staying out past curfew.

A2 The students defied the teacher's instructions and continued talking during the lesson.

B1 The protesters defied the government's orders and continued their demonstration.

B2 The athlete defied the odds and won the championship despite being injured.

C1 The artist defied traditional conventions in his latest exhibition, creating a truly unique experience for viewers.

C2 The scientist's groundbreaking research defied previously accepted theories, revolutionizing the field of physics.

Examples of defy in a Sentence

formal The defendant's decision to defy the court order resulted in serious consequences.

informal She always defies her parents' rules and does whatever she wants.

slang I dare you to defy the teacher and sneak out of class.

figurative Despite the odds, he continued to defy the limits of what was thought possible.

Grammatical Forms of defy

past tense

defied

plural

defies

comparative

more defiant

superlative

most defiant

present tense

defy

future tense

will defy

perfect tense

have defied

continuous tense

is defying

singular

defies

positive degree

defy

infinitive

to defy

gerund

defying

participle

defied

Origin and Evolution of defy

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Middle English
Story behind the word: The word 'defy' originated from Middle English 'defien' which came from Old French 'desfier' meaning to challenge or confront.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'defy' has retained its basic meaning of challenging or resisting authority or expectations, but it has also taken on additional connotations of being bold, courageous, and unyielding in the face of obstacles.