How to Pronounce Defy

To pronounce "defy", say DEFY — one syllable, IPA /dɪˈfaɪ/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

defy

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Accent

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Speed

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1

Syllable

4

Letters

/dɪˈfaɪ/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “defy”

"defy" is a single-syllable word — say it in one clean beat. It rhymes with wry and exemplify, if that helps it stick.

What does defy mean?

noun

  1. A challenge.

verb

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

    “to defy an enemy;   to defy the power of a magistrate;   to defy the arguments of an opponent;   to defy public opinion”

  2. To refuse to obey.

    “If you defy your teacher you may end up in detention.”

Hear “defy” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with defy

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

wryexemplifyrectifyhighlieapplyfortifyawrymollifyamplifynullifycry

Related words

dareresistwithstandrefuseholddefiantfloutbrave

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "defy"?▾

"Defy" has one syllable.

What is the IPA transcription of "defy"?▾

The IPA transcription of "defy" is /dɪˈfaɪ/.

What does "defy" mean?▾

Defy: A challenge.

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