ENGLISH
REFERENCE

defiantly

adv. manner
B2 Upper Intermediate US //dɪˈfaɪəntɫi// UK //dɪfˈaɪəntli// de·fi·ant·ly

adv. to do something in a way that shows you refuse to obey someone or something. You act this way when you are challenged and want to show you are not afraid.

adv. in a manner that demonstrates open resistance or bold disobedience. Typically modifies verbs of action or speech to indicate a refusal to submit to authority.


SIMPLE

The child stood defiantly and refused to move.

CONTEXTUAL

Despite the threat of a fine, the shopkeeper defiantly kept his doors open during the holiday.

COMPLEX

The small group of protesters remained defiantly in the square long after the curfew had passed, chanting slogans against the new legislation.

Synonyms
Origin

From defiant + -ly.

Usage

Typically follows the verb it modifies or appears at the end of the clause.

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