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defy Synonyms
Another word for defy
Choosing another word for defy depends on context, so the 19 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 3 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
• verb (Context 1)
To openly resist, disobey, or refuse to submit to an authority, law, or convention.
Usage Example
"The activist chose to disobey the unjust curfew by remaining in the public square."
Strongest
disobey
resist
flout
Strong
challenge
stand up to
oppose
confront
disregard
spurn
• verb (Context 2)
To prove impossible to do, explain, or describe; to elude or resist successfully (especially of a quality, phenomenon, or problem).
Usage Example
"The sheer scale and beauty of the canyon elude description."
Strongest
elude
Strong
baffle
confound
thwart
foil
frustrate
transcend
• verb (Context 3)
To challenge someone to do something considered impossible or improbable.
Usage Example
"I dare anyone to watch that comedy performance without laughing out loud."
Strongest
dare
challenge
Strong
provoke
taunt
Opposites of defy
The opposite of defy shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:
obey
comply
submit
yield
surrender
conform
capitulate
admit
• Nearby Words
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Defy. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/defy