vie

[vahy]

verb (used without object)

vied, vying 

1. to strive in competition or rivalry with another; contend for superiority.

   Swimmers from many nations were vying for the title.

   Synonyms: struggle, contest, compete

verb (used with object)

vied, vying 

1. Archaic.,  to put forward in competition or rivalry.

2. Obsolete.,  to stake in card playing.

vie

/ vaɪ /

verb

1. (intr; foll by with or for) to contend for superiority or victory (with) or strive in competition (for)

2. archaic,  (tr) to offer, exchange, or display in rivalry

Other Word Forms

• vier noun
• vying adjective
• outvie verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of vie¹

First recorded in 1525–35; by shortening of Middle French envier “to raise the stake (at cards),” Old French: “to challenge, provoke,” from Latin invītāre “to entertain, treat, invite”

Word History and Origins

Origin of vie¹

C15: probably from Old French envier to challenge, from Latin invītāre to _invite

Example Sentences

Palisades, which reached the City Division I final last season but is vying for the Open Division this fall, led 21-7 at halftime.

From Los Angeles Times

Given the Himalayan nation's strategic location, both India and China are vying for influence in the country, leading to accusations the two Asian giants are meddling in the internal affairs of Nepal.

From BBC

Candidates vying to be Labour's next deputy leader are racing to get the support of their fellow MPs, as Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson emerges as a frontrunner.

From BBC

Gosdinski’s stake in the historic amusement remains tied up in Los Angeles County probate court, where Gosdinski’s mother and sister are vying with another owner for control, records show.

From Los Angeles Times

The Canadian striker's agent Nick Mavromaras explained to BBC Sport that several clubs across Europe were vying for his client's signature.

From BBC

Related Words

• contend 
• strive