defy
verb (used with object)
to challenge the power of; resist boldly or openly.
has defied
-
present perfectof defy (3rd person singular).present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
Still, some investors believe that the bull market has further room to run, underpinned by an earnings season that has defied expectations.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 14, 2026
But bitcoin’s performance during the first half of 2026 has defied those expectations.
From MarketWatch ● Jun. 30, 2026
But Telemundo has defied such forecasts to become one of the nation’s hottest news outlets.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 11, 2026
While Nichola says Lou has "defied the odds" and attends a mainstream school, she suffers with mental processing difficulties, mood disorders and behavioural conditions.
From BBC ● Apr. 7, 2026
He has defied them for a long time, but their power has grown and grown.
From The City in the Clouds by C. Ranger Gull
