vie

[ vahy ]

verb (used without object)

, vied, vy·ing.

1. to strive in competition or rivalry with another; contend for superiority:

   Swimmers from many nations were vying for the title.

   Synonyms: struggle, contest, compete

verb (used with object)

, vied, vy·ing.

1. Archaic. to put forward in competition or rivalry.
2. Obsolete. to stake in card playing.

vie

/ vaɪ /

verb

1. intr; foll by with or for to contend for superiority or victory (with) or strive in competition (for)
2. archaic.
   tr to offer, exchange, or display in rivalry

Derived Forms

• ˈvier, noun
• ˈvying, adjectivenoun

Other Words From

• vier noun
• outvie verb (used with object) outvied outvying

Word History and Origins

Origin of vie¹

First recorded in 1525–35; by shortening of Middle French envier “to raise the stake (at cards),” Old French: “to challenge, provoke,” from Latin invītāre “to entertain, treat, invite”

Word History and Origins

Origin of vie¹

C15: probably from Old French envier to challenge, from Latin invītāre to invite

Example Sentences

The old kingpins are locked up, their sons vying for control.

From Los Angeles Times

They join India, Australia, South Africa and Sri Lanka in vying for the two spots available, but England sit sixth in the table and are out of contention.

From BBC

In 1975 he was chosen to host the debut season of a new game show called “Wheel of Fortune,” after a rival actor vying for the job appeared visibly intoxicated during early tapings.

From Los Angeles Times

“A lot of charities are trying to close out strong, and criminals know that and are vying for the same dollars,” Stokes said.

From Los Angeles Times

Then, she sought out Barney, insisting on speaking only to him rather two other McCarthy biographers vying for her attention.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• contend
• strive