'defiant' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'defier,' where 'de-' meant 'away' and 'fier' meant 'to trust.'

'defier' transformed into the Middle English word 'defien,' and eventually became the modern English word 'defiant.'

Initially, it meant 'to distrust or challenge,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'showing resistance or disobedience.'