# defiant

/dɪˈfaɪənt/ (US) · /dɪfˈaɪənt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/defiant
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

showing that you refuse to obey someone or something. You use this to describe someone who is being bold and challenging toward authority.

For teachers: showing open resistance or bold disobedience. Often used to describe a person's attitude or physical expression when facing opposition.

## Examples

- The child stood with a defiant look on his face.
- Despite the threat of a fine, the shopkeeper remained defiant and kept his store open during the holiday.
- The protesters remained defiant in the face of the new legislation, gathering in the central square to voice their opposition despite the heavy police presence.

## Usage notes

- Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'remain', 'stay', or 'look'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.