defiance
/dɪˈfaɪ(j)əns/noun
Open, bold refusal to obey or show respect for authority or power.
Example sentences
- “The workers stayed on strike in defiance of the court order.”
- “She raised her chin in defiance and refused to apologize.”
The phrase 'in defiance of' works like 'despite', but with attitude: 'in defiance of orders'.