defiant

Everyday

1. Defiant means openly refusing to obey or to do what you are told: "a defiant child folded his arms". tree →
2. Defiant can also mean bravely standing up to something stronger: "a defiant shout against the storm". tree →

In the lessons

In stories, a defiant look, tone or shout shows a character refusing to give in; it can be naughty or brave depending on who they stand up to. In school, defiant behaviour means refusing teachers' instructions. Phrases: defiant look, defiant mood, defiant to the end.

Examples

• The defiant boy refused to tidy his room. tree →
• She gave the bully a defiant stare. tree →
• "I won't!" she said in a defiant voice. tree →
• The defiant soldiers would not surrender. tree →
• The cat looked defiant as it knocked the cup off the table. tree →
• Despite losing, the team stayed defiant to the end. tree →

Note

Pronounced "di-FY-ant". Verb: defy; noun: defiance; adverb: defiantly. Spelling: ends in -ant. Being defiant to a bully can be brave; being defiant to safety rules is dangerous.