vie

[vahy]

verb (used without object)

vied, vying 

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, vying 

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

Other Word Forms

• vier noun
• outvie verb (used with object)
• vying adjective

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 Canadian striker's agent Nick Mavromaras explained to BBC Sport that several clubs across Europe were vying for his client's signature.

From BBC

Reform UK said 17 candidates had been vying for a place on the board, which it describes as the "party's most important decision-making body".

From BBC

The expected payoff from the next high school class is more than a decent season ending in a bowl game; the Bruins are vying for something unprecedented.

From Los Angeles Times

“Some of the most aggressive gerrymandering in American history occurred after the Civil War, as the parties vied for control of the nation,” Yang wrote.

From Salon

This year, she’s vying for lead actress in a comedy for her performance as an eccentric gumshoe on the Netflix whodunit “The Residence.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• contend 
• strive