də̇ˈfīən(t)s, dēˈ- noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English defyaunce, from Old French desfiance, defiance, from desfier, defier to defy + -ance — more at defy
1. obsolete : a renunciation of allegiance or friendship
2. : act of defying, putting in opposition, or provoking to combat : challenge : a declaration of hostilities
3. : a state of opposition : willingness to fight : disposition to resist : contempt of opposition
he breathed defiance to my ears — Shakespeare
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- in defiance of