defied

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The mansion’s goings-on were evidence that Hefner had amassed enough money and prestige to get his way, even when his way defied social norms, public-health best practices, and the law.

From Slate • Jun. 11, 2026

The massive expansion shows Kim plans to greatly expand a nuclear program that has defied pressure from great powers such as the U.S. and China and has rattled its neighbors in Asia.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

Despite the company's lack of a competitive AI offering, Apple shares have largely defied gravity over the past two years, and the stock is up about 15 percent this year.

From Barron's • Jun. 8, 2026

King defied expectations as a teenage mother who dropped out of school to gatecrash the predominantly white male music industry.

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

All across the country, those who defied on June 26 did so with courage, enthusiasm, and a sense of history.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela