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

The Clippers had defied the preseason odds of being a playoff participant.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 2025

He had defied a congressional subpoena to testify about the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S.

From Salon • Apr. 29, 2024

This bear had defied him, and he had hated it with every fiber of his existence.

From "Touching Spirit Bear" by Ben Mikaelsen