noun

defiance

defiance, resistance, opposition

She showed defiance against the rules.

She showed defiance against the rules.

His act of defiance was a surprise to everyone.

His act of defiance was a surprise to everyone.

in defiance of ((sth.)) in open opposition to something He acted in defiance of the court order.

an act of defiance an action that shows opposition Her speech was an act of defiance.

Synonyms: resistance, opposition, rebellion; Antonyms: obedience, submission, compliance

From Old French 'defiance', from 'defier' (to challenge). From 'de-' (away) + 'fidare' (to trust), literally 'to renounce faith'.

This is the noun form of 'defy'. If you defy someone, you are showing defiance.

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