De*fy" (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Defied (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Defying.] [F. d'efier, OF. deffier, desfier, LL. disfidare to disown faith or fidelity, to dissolve the bond of allegiance, as between the vassal and his lord; hence, to challenge, defy; fr. L. dis- + fides faith. See Faith, and cf. Diffident, Affiance.]

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.

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.

 

© Webster 1913.


De*fy" (?), n.

A challenge.

[Obs.]

Dryden.

 

© Webster 1913.

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