Synonyms for

Defy

Verb / dɪˈfaɪ / Another word for defy — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To refuse to obey or comply with something.

Synonyms & similar words

lendoneself refuse dare hold withstand resist holdup disobey resist challenge oppose rebel contradict ignore disregard violate dispute contest thwart withstand cross dare flout spurn refuse

Synonyms by register

Formal

disobey resist contravene transgress

Informal

flout scoff at laugh at thumb your nose at

Literary

spurn brave scorn

Antonyms

obey submit yield comply acquiesce surrender defer

Common collocations

  • defy expectations
  • defy logic
  • defy gravity
  • defy convention
  • defy description
  • defy the odds
  • defy arrest

Word family

noun defiance
verb defy
adjective defiant

Usage note

To 'defy' means to openly resist or refuse to obey. It often implies a challenge to authority or established norms.

Example sentences

  1. She decided to defy her parents and stay up late.
  2. He defied the odds and won the competition.
  3. The students defied the teacher's instructions and talked during class.
  4. The athlete defied gravity with his high jump.
  5. The rebel group defied the government's authority and refused to disband.

Quotes

  • The best way to predict the future is to defy it.
  • Sometimes the only way to defy expectations is to shatter them completely.
  • The human spirit must sometimes defy the laws of physics.

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