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.
Stocks edged back from records Friday, with investors weighing weaker-than-anticipated economic data against an earnings season that has defied expectations.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 14, 2026
Almost 1.2 million undocumented migrants have sought legal status in Spain under a scheme that has defied a growing European crackdown on irregular immigration, according to final figures released on Thursday.
From Barron's ● Jul. 2, 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
For the layman there is no safety except in having intelligence enough to know whether his trouble has defied the sincere application of mental treatment, auto-suggestion, and loyalty to the health ideal.
From Civics and Health by William H. Allen
