defeat
verb (used with object)
to overcome in a contest, election, battle, etc.; prevail over; vanquish.
have defeated
-
present perfectof defeat.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.
The critics noted that voters have defeated every attempt to eliminate the elected state superintendent.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 1, 2026
"We have a long history of resistance, and we are very seasoned; we have defeated many authoritarian governments, many violent politicians, so no, don't come threatening us," he said Monday.
From Barron's ● Jun. 22, 2026
“We have defeated each and every one of those threats through the clinical application of defensive munitions,” he said.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 4, 2026
Had he simply fought Fox’s complaint the right way, he may well have defeated the charges in short order.
From Slate ● Mar. 11, 2026
"I don't doubt that you have defeated the bravest knights in all Spain, but not Don Quixote de la Mancha," the selfsame said.
From "Adventures of Don Quixote" by Argentina Palacios
