disobey

[ dis-uh-bey ]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to neglect or refuse to obey.

   Synonyms: oppose, ignore, resist, disregard, defy

disobey

/ ˌdɪsəˈbeɪ /

verb

1. to neglect or refuse to obey (someone, an order, etc)

Derived Forms

• ˌdisoˈbeyer, noun

Other Words From

• diso·beyer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of disobey¹

1350–1400; Middle English disobeien < Old French desobeir, equivalent to des- dis- ¹ + obeir to obey

Example Sentences

"He's a guy who imposes brutal discipline," says Yaari, "People knew in Hamas and they still do - if you disobey Sinwar, you put your life on the line."

From BBC

Though it’s illegal to hunt the creatures in Uruguay, some still disobey the law.

From Salon

He said the statement also "openly incited officials from the police and military to disobey the laws".

From BBC

If the students disobey and miss class for abortion care, the filing continues, the professors should be allowed to flunk students.

From Salon

As recounted by Selvin, Gordon heard voices that would only grow more hostile and dangerous over time, even causing him intense physical pain if he dared to disobey them.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• contravene
• defy
• evade
• flout
• ignore
• infringe
• misbehave
• overstep
• transgress
• violate