Defy meaning

What does “defy” mean? Definitions, examples, synonyms and opposites.

“defy” is a verb with 3 meanings. Its most common meaning is: resist or confront with resistance.

defy

verb

  1. resist or confront with resistance

    “The politician defied public opinion”

    “The new material withstands even the greatest wear and tear”

  2. elude, especially in a baffling way

    “This behavior defies explanation”

    Synonymsresistrefuse
    Oppositeslend oneself
  3. challenge

    “I dare you!”

    Synonymsdare

Source: WordNet 3.1, Princeton University