Defiance Meaning and Definition
Defiance
Pronunciation
/ˈdɛfɪˌænz/
Part of Speech
Quality or state of resisting or resisting authority, rule or law.
Definition
A state of boldly resisting or resisting authority, power, or control, often in a disobedient or rebellious manner.
Examples
- The protest was a defiant stance against the government’s decision.
- The company’s defiance of the regulatory body resulted in severe penalties.
- The hikers showed defiance by refusing to leave the disputed territory.
Synonyms
- Rebellion
- Opposition
- Resistance
Antonyms
- Obedience
- Submission
- Conformity
Etymology
The word “Defiance” originates from the Old French word “defiance,” meaning “challenge” or “protest.” It has its roots in Latin, specifically the words “defiari,” meaning “to challenge,” and “defiatum,” meaning “act of challenging.”
Usage Notes
The word “Defiance” is often used in formal or official contexts to describe a bold or deliberately provocative act or statement. However, in informal contexts, it can also connote a sense of courage or conviction.
Cultural References
The word “Defiance” has appeared in various forms of media, including literature, film, and music. For example, the 1952 novel “The Defiant Ones” by Nicholas Ray explores the theme of racial defiance, while the 2003 film “The Defiant One” features a robot that defies its creators.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“To take a defiant stand” means to boldly resist or protest authority or rule, while “a defiant attitude” implies a strong sense of resistance or opposition.
Related Words or Phrases
- Rebellion
- Revolution
- Opposition
Collocations
- Defiant behavior
- Defiant words
- Defiant actions
Frequency of Use
The word “Defiance” is not commonly used in everyday language, but it appears in formal or official contexts, such as in literature, journalism, or in statements from government or institutional representatives.
Common Misspellings
The word “Defiance” is often misspelled as “Defiense” or “Deffiene.” Both variations refer to a strong opposition or challenge to authority.
Additional Information
Defiance is a state of resisting authority or control in a bold and unapologetic manner. This attitude or quality is often used in protest, demonstrations, and dissent movements to make a powerful statement or assertion of autonomy and non-conformity.
The practice of defiance varies from region to region, historical periods to contemporary expressions of dissatisfaction or assertive wills and determined pursuit.