defeat

[dɪˈfiːt]

defeat Definition

• 1. win a victory over (someone) in a battle or other contest; overcome or beat
• 2. prevent (someone) from achieving an aim or prevent (something) from succeeding

Using defeat: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "defeat" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The army was defeated in battle.

• Example

  She finally defeated her longtime rival in the tennis match.

• Example

  We must not allow this issue to defeat us.

• Example

  The team's lack of preparation defeated their chances of winning.

defeat Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for defeat

• conquer
• vanquish
• overpower
• beat
• triumph over

Antonyms for defeat

• lose
• surrender
• yield
• submit

Phrases with defeat

• admit defeat

  acknowledge that one has been beaten or has failed

  Example

  After hours of trying to solve the puzzle, he finally admitted defeat.

• snatch defeat from the jaws of victory

  to fail at the last moment when one is very close to success

  Example

  The team had a comfortable lead throughout the game, but they snatched defeat from the jaws of victory by making careless mistakes in the final minutes.

• staring defeat in the face

  to be faced with the prospect of losing or failing

  Example

  After losing the first two sets, she was staring defeat in the face, but she managed to come back and win the match.

Origins of defeat

from Old French 'desfait', past participle of 'desfaire', meaning 'undo'

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Summary: defeat in Brief

To 'defeat' [dɪˈfiːt] someone means to win a victory over them in a battle or contest, or to prevent them from achieving an aim. It can refer to physical or abstract battles, as in 'She finally defeated her longtime rival in the tennis match.' 'Defeat' can also be used in phrases like 'admit defeat,' meaning to acknowledge failure, or 'snatch defeat from the jaws of victory,' meaning to fail at the last moment when one is very close to success.