defies

present tense third-person singular of defy
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2
as in dares
to invite (someone) to take part in a contest or to perform a feat after missing the target, she defied her boyfriend to do better

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of defies But his idea of a conservative black urban mayor defies credulity. Armond White, National Review, 4 Oct. 2024 Yacht Week is a cultural phenomenon that defies description. Rob Reed, Forbes, 30 Sep. 2024
Recent Examples of Synonyms for defies
Verb
  • Backstabbing and revenge are dished out for Bella, who dares to kiss her friend’s boyfriend.
    Kevin Dolak, The Hollywood Reporter, 2 Oct. 2024
  • The actor, whose company (Team Downey) is also attached to the project, is a commanding presence onstage, relishing in McNeal’s smarminess and imbuing his quips with viper-like precision when anyone dares stand between him and success.
    EW.com, EW.com, 1 Oct. 2024
Verb
  • The truck ignores lousy roads, delivering a smooth ride on pavement or dirt.
    Josh Max, Forbes, 18 Oct. 2024
  • But this narrow view of leadership ignores the quiet strengths that introverts bring to the table.
    Benjamin Laker, Forbes, 14 Oct. 2024
Verb
  • The contemporary world faces challenges such as climate change, economic inequality and technological disruptions that require a more comprehensive and integrated diplomatic approach.
    Majeed Javdani, Forbes, 4 Oct. 2024
  • Jefferson now faces Democrat Adam Moore.
    Hannah Pinski, The Courier-Journal, 4 Oct. 2024
Verb
  • The Sun opposes Chiron and creates a trine with Jupiter.
    Jennifer Culp, Them, 4 Oct. 2024
  • Mercury creates a trine with Jupiter, opposes Chiron, and squares off against Pluto.
    Jennifer Culp, Them, 4 Oct. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near defies

Cite this Entry

“Defies.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/defies. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

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