DEFEAT, n. 1. Overthrow; loss of battle; the check, rout, or destruction of an army by the victory of an enemy.2. Successful resistance; as the defeat of an attack.3. Frustration; a rendering null and void; as the defeat of a title.4. Frustration; prevention of success; as the defeat of a plan or design.DEFEAT, v.t. 1. To overcome or vanquish, as an army; to check, disperse or ruin by victory; to overthrow; applies to an army, or a division of troops; to a fleet, or to a commander.The English army defeated the French on the plains of Abraham. Gen. Wolf defeated Montcalm. The French defeated the Austrians at Marengo.2. To frustrate; to prevent the success of; to disappoint.Then mayest thou for me defeat the counsel of Ahithophel. 2 Sam. Xv. And xvii.We say, our dearest hopes are often defeated.3. To render null and void; as, to defeat a title or an estate.4. To resist with success; as, to defeat an attempt or assault.
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