defy
Translation
to resist openly, to challenge, to withstand
Examples
She defied her parents and left home.
She defied her parents and left home.
The view from the top defies description.
The view from the top defies description.
Grammar Patterns
((sb./sth.)) to openly resist or refuse to obey (sb./sth.) She defied her parents and left home.
((sth.)) to be almost impossible to describe or believe The view from the top defies description.
Similar Words
Synonyms: resist, challenge, confront; Antonyms: obey, surrender
Etymology
From Old French 'desfier' (to renounce faith), from 'des-' (away) + 'fier' (to trust).
Memory Tips
Imagine defying gravity by floating. It's about going against a powerful force.