B2nounsport
US/dɪˈfiːt/
UK/dɪˈfiːt/
the fact of losing a game, fight, election or competition
In context
The team suffered a heavy defeat in their first match of the season.
She refused to accept defeat and asked for a rematch.
Learning to handle defeat is an important part of growing up.
Words that go with defeat
verb + noun
- suffer a defeatThe champions suffered a defeat at home for the first time in years.
- admit defeatI tried to fix the bike myself but finally had to admit defeat.
- accept defeatGood athletes accept defeat with grace.
adjective + noun
- heavy defeatAfter the heavy defeat, the coach apologized to the fans.
- narrow defeatThe narrow defeat left the players in tears.
noun + preposition
- defeat byTheir defeat by a much smaller club shocked everyone.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
Our team was lost 3–0.Correct: Our team lost 3–0. / Our team was defeated 3–0.