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Defeating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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defeating

[dɪˈfiːtɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in a battle

To defeat someone or something is to win a victory over them in a battle, game, or contest.

Synonyms

beat, conquer, overcome, triumph over.

Examples of usage

  • He defeated his opponent in the final round.
  • The army was defeated in a fierce battle.
  • We need a new strategy to defeat the enemy.
Context #2 | Verb

in a debate or argument

To defeat someone in a debate or argument is to prove them wrong or win the argument.

Synonyms

outargue, outmaneuver, outwit.

Examples of usage

  • She defeated her opponent with strong arguments.
  • He was defeated in the debate by his opponent's logic.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Sports

  • In competitive sports, defeating an opponent can lead to championships and titles, like in soccer or basketball.
  • The concept of 'defeating' is central to many sports, as ultimate victory often involves overcoming several adversaries in a tournament.

Psychology

  • Experiencing defeat can lead to powerful emotional responses, including determination or despair, influencing motivation.
  • The ability to cope with defeat is crucial for personal growth, as it teaches resilience and problem-solving skills.

Literature

  • Many stories revolve around the theme of defeating a villain or obstacle, highlighting the hero's journey.
  • Classic literature often narrates the struggle of the protagonist against overwhelming odds, culminating in their ultimate defeat of the antagonist.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often depict characters who must overcome challenges, with the climactic moment being their defeating of a great foe.
  • Video games frequently revolve around the concept of defeating enemies or bosses to progress through levels and achieve victory.

Origin of 'defeating'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'deficere', meaning to fail or be lacking, which transformed into something that relates to overcoming.
  • During the 14th century, it started being used in English to mean beating someone in a contest.

The word 'defeating' originates from the Old French word 'desfaire' meaning 'to destroy' or 'undo'. The concept of defeating has been central to human history, from battles on the battlefield to debates in the courtroom. The idea of overcoming an opponent or obstacle is a fundamental aspect of human nature and has been celebrated in literature, art, and sports throughout history.

See also: defeat, defeatable, defeated, defeatism, defeatist, defeats, undefeatable.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,962, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.