defy

Verb

• challenge
  • I dare you!
    

• elude, especially in a baffling way
  • This behavior defies explanation
    

• resist or confront with resistance
  • The politician defied public opinion
    
  • The new material withstands even the greatest wear and tear
    
  • The bridge held
    

Related words

• Synonyms: 
  dare , resist , refuse , withstand , hold , hold up
• Antonyms: 
  lend oneself , apply