defy
verb (used with object)
to challenge the power of; resist boldly or openly.
had defied
-
past perfectof defy.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
He has since led an internal revolt and was elected party leader in January, ending the decade-long grip of former prime minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, 79, who had defied calls for reform.
From Barron's ● Feb. 27, 2026
All year, the Bears had defied logic with their uncanny ability to snatch victories from the jaws of defeat.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 19, 2026
He disputed allegations made the governor of Niger state, Umar Bago, in local media that the church had defied an order to close its school after threats of attacks.
From BBC ● Nov. 25, 2025
The administration had defied that order and made no secret of it.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 16, 2025
They all knew the reason: Mr. Willis had defied the League of St. Alexander, and now he was being punished.
From "The Book of Dust: La Belle Sauvage" by Philip Pullman
