Defiant

usgb/dɪˈfaɪənt/
adjective

Refusing to obey or respect someone or something.

She walked out of the room in a defiant manner.
Visual representation of "defiant" - Refusing to obey or respect someone or something

Often appears as...

  • defiant tone
  • remain defiant
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "defiant"
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Confrontational Tone

Defiant often includes the nuance of confrontational or challenging behaviors towards authority.

Illustration for Confrontational Tone
His defiant reply to the teacher landed him in detention.
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Resolute Stance

Being defiant can also imply standing firm on one's beliefs, despite pressure to do otherwise.

Illustration for Resolute Stance
Despite the criticism, she remained defiant about her decision.
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Negative Connotation

Using defiant suggests a negative judgment of someone's refusal to follow rules or authority.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The child's defiant behavior frustrated his parents.
Word comparison image

Compare with

contrarydisobedientinsubordinateobstinaterebelliousrecalcitrancestubbornwayward
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Visual representation of the word "Defiant"

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