'defy' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'desfier,' where 'des-' meant 'away' and 'fier' meant 'to trust.'

'desfier' transformed into the Middle English word 'defien,' and eventually became the modern English word 'defy.'

Initially, it meant 'to renounce faith or trust,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to openly resist or refuse to obey.'