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 last-minute withdrawal means South Africa will not be represented at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant, where Ms Le Roux was among 120 beauty queens vying for the coveted title.

From BBC

Disagreements between the self-fashioned libertarians, neoconservatives and nationalists previewed the factions vying for power within the Republican Party, factions which stand to come to the forefront in his next term.

From Salon

It was the first Oscar ceremony where more than one Black performer was vying for the lead actor trophy.

From Los Angeles Times

Although 12 hopefuls are vying for the presidency, only two have a realistic chance of winning.

From BBC

He is part of the transition team and the one-time presidential candidate is vying for a role with influence over health policy.

From BBC

Related Words

• contend
• strive