defiant
4 synonyms and 4 antonyms for defiant, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Boldly resisting authority, opposition, or a challenge.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
Etymology
From French défiant, from défier ("to defy"); a doublet of "diffident."
Full origin of defiant →Frequently asked questions
What does “defiant” mean?
The word “defiant” means boldly resisting authority, opposition, or a challenge.
How do you pronounce “defiant”?
“Defiant” is pronounced dih-FEYE-uhnt (/dɪˈfaɪənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “defiant” in a sentence?
Here is “defiant” used in a sentence: “The defiant teenager refused to apologise.”
What is another word for “defiant”?
Words with a similar meaning to “defiant” include dareful, rebellious, recalcitrant and truculent.
What is the opposite of “defiant”?
The opposite of “defiant” — its antonyms — are docile, obedient, submissive and dominant.
What part of speech is “defiant”?
“Defiant” is an adjective.
Where does the word “defiant” come from?
The word “defiant” comes from French. From French défiant, from défier ("to defy"); a doublet of "diffident.".
Is “defiant” a common word?
“Defiant” is an uncommon word in modern English.