Definitions for defy

• Definition
• Anagrams (24)

defy de·fy

Spelling: [verb dih-fahy; noun dih-fahy, Defy is a 4 letter English word. It's valid Scrabble word worth 11 points. It's valid Words with friends word worth 10 points.

You can make 24 anagrams from letters in defy (defy).

Definitions for defy

noun

1. a challenge; a defiance.

verb (used with object)

1. to challenge the power of; resist boldly or openly:
2. to offer effective resistance to:
3. to challenge (a person) to do something deemed impossible:
4. Archaic. to challenge to a combat or contest.

Origin of defy

1250-1300; Middle English defien Old French desfier, equivalent to des- dis-¹ + fier to trust Vulgar Latin *fīdāre, variant of Latin fīdere

Examples for defy

The political implications are clear—but the battle lines about to form are likely to defy party lines.

There he must build a strong fortress and there defy his enemies.

"I defy you to be so good or so bad as your word, doctor," said Hervey.

In the arrogance of his heart he said, "I can defy the future."

Saying so is to make a statement so obvious as to defy the need for citation.

The man who once seemed to defy death entirely has held onto his reputation and accolades long after succumbing to his mortality.

Why will she defy the power she is absolutely dependent upon?

Did the Government intend to allow this man to defy the law?

The Simpsons really does defy all expectations in terms of the normal lifespan.

Ayman al-Zawahiri, the leader of al Qaeda, specifically called on French Muslims to defy the ban.