Want to find out what does the word defeat mean? We gathered all the possible definitions of the word defeat on our website. Our definition dictionary is updated all the time with new definitions and is ready to help you.
defeat
Part of speech: VerbTo overthrow or vanquish; as, to defeat an enemy; bring to naught; frustrate; as, to defeat a purpose.
Part of speech: NounAct of preventing or bringing to naught; overthrow; the state of being conquered.
Usage examples "defeat":- Right here the Emperor suffered a great defeat. - "The South American Republics Part I of II", Thomas C. Dawson.
- " Not so dreadful as what I do," I replied; on which I must have shown her- as I was indeed but too conscious- a front of miserable defeat. - "The Turn of the Screw", Henry James.
- The broker took it from him without protest, for he was one who could face defeat. - "Masters of the Wheat-Lands", Harold Bindloss.