What does defy mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈdʒərbərə/

verb

To resist or withstand an obstacle, challenge, or force; to challenge or resist the authority, power, or rules of someone or something.

The word “defy” originates from Old French “defier”, which is derived from the Latin “deficere”, meaning “to fall short” or “to be insufficient).

You can use “defy” to describe actions that challenge societal norms, authority, or conventions.

The phrase “to defy gravity” is often used to describe extraordinary feats or abilities.

Defy is a commonly used verb in modern language, particularly in the context of social and political activism.