This is the 9543rd most frequent French word.
défier
To challenge or defy.
The word 'défier' is used here to describe challenging something perceived as unlikely or adverse.
Il a décidé de défier les odds et de poursuivre son rêve.
He decided to defy the odds and pursue his dream.
'défier' describes initiating or engaging in a competitive challenge with others.
Elle aime défier ses amis à des jeux intellectuels.
She likes to challenge her friends to intellectual games.
Here, 'défier' signifies actively going against or disregarding established norms or practices.