defy

/dɪˈfaɪ/verb

To openly resist or stand up to a person, rule, or danger.

Example sentences

“The climbers defied the storm and pushed on toward the summit.”
“She defied her parents' wishes and moved abroad to study art.”

Also appears in 'defy description' and 'defy gravity', where it means to escape or resist rather than to disobey.

Related words

degreeA qualification awarded by a university or college to show that a course of study has been completed.deftDoing something quickly, neatly, and with skill.dejectedTo make someone feel sad and without hope or energy.defiantOpenly and boldly refusing to obey or back down.delectableExtremely pleasing to the senses, especially to taste or smell; delicious.defianceOpen, bold refusal to obey or show respect for authority or power.