GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

last match results

Found 2 definitions

1.       
   defy (dḗ‑fīˈ), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Defied (dḗ‑fīdˈ); p. pr. & vb. n. Defying.] [F. défier, OF. deffier, desfier, LL. disfidare to disown faith or fidelity, to dissolve the bond of allegiance, as between the vassal and his lord; hence, to challenge, defy; fr. L. dis- + fides faith. See Faith, and cf. Diffident, Affiance.]
   1. To renounce or dissolve all bonds of affiance, faith, or obligation with; to reject, refuse, or renounce. [Obs.]
   
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   I defy the surety and the bond. Chaucer.
   
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   For thee I have defied my constant mistress. Beau. & Fl.
   
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   2. To provoke to combat or strife; to call out to combat; to challenge; to dare; to brave; to set at defiance; to treat with contempt; as, “to defy an enemy; to defy the power of a magistrate; to defy the arguments of an opponent; to defy public opinion.”
   
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   I once again
   
   Defy thee to the trial of mortal fight. Milton.
   
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   I defy the enemies of our constitution to show the contrary. Burke.
   
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2.       
   defy (dḗ‑fīˈ), n. A challenge. [Obs.] Dryden.
   
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