defiantly

Everyday

Defiantly means in a way that shows you refuse to obey or are openly standing up against someone or something. tree →

In the lessons

In stories, characters act defiantly against bullies, tyrants or rules: «she lifted her chin defiantly». It can show bravery (standing up to unfairness) or rudeness (refusing to do as asked), depending on the story. Phrases: «stare defiantly», «answer defiantly».

Examples

• The boy folded his arms and stared defiantly at the bully. tree →
• «I won't go!» she said defiantly. tree →
• The little flag waved defiantly in the storm. tree →
• The prisoners sang defiantly in their cells. tree →
• He defiantly refused to tidy his room. tree →
• The tree stood defiantly after the hurricane. tree →

Note

Adjective: defiant; noun: defiance; verb: defy. Spelling trap: defiantly (refusing) is often confused with definitely (surely) — check the letters: defi-ANT-ly vs defin-ITE-ly.