NYT Dictionary

DEFY

/dɪˈfaɪ/
VerbNounde-FYde-fy · 2 syllablesGrade 9

Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2021, 2024, 2025

Meaning

To challenge (someone) or brave (a hazard or opposition).

Etymology

Origin: Latin

From Old French desfier, from Vulgar Latin *disfidare (“renounce one's faith”), from Latin dis- (“away”) + fidus (“faithful”). Meaning shifted in the 14th century from "be disloyal" to "challenge". Contrast confide, fidelity, faith.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

withstandholdresistrefusedareaffrontattackbafflebalkbanter

NYT Puzzle Appearances

Accepted in 2 recorded puzzles:

Join the Spelling Bee Community

Get solving strategies, rare word lists, and puzzle tips in your inbox every week.