01 v. t. To renounce or dissolve all bonds of affiance, faith, or obligation with; to reject, refuse, or renounce.
imp. & p. p.
Defied; p. pr. & vb. n.
Defying
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1.
To renounce or dissolve all bonds of affiance, faith, or obligation with; to reject, refuse, or renounce.[Obs.]“I defy the surety and the bond.” — Chaucer.“For thee I have defied my constant mistress.” — Beau. & Fl.
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2.
To provoke to combat or strife; to call out to combat; to challenge; to dare; to brave; to set at defiance; to treat with contempt; as, to defy an enemy; to defy the power of a magistrate; to defy the arguments of an opponent; to defy public opinion.“I once again Defy thee to the trial of mortal fight.” — Milton.“I defy the enemies of our constitution to show the contrary.” — Burke.