View synonyms for defiant

defiant

[ dih-fahy-uhnt ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

adjective

characterized by defiance; boldly resistant or challenging:
a defiant attitude.
Synonyms: daring, insolent, rebellious, recalcitrant, refractory, contumacious, insubordinate
Antonyms: obedient

Origin of defiant¹

First recorded in 1830–40; from French défiant, Old French, present participle of defier “to challenge, defy”; defy, -ant

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