The term 'REFUSES TO OBEY' can be broken down into four crossword solutions: DEFIES (6 letters), REBEL (5 letters), BALKS (5 letters), and DENIES (6 letters). All of these words refer to a person or group who refuses to comply with an order or request. DEFIES is an act of open resistance or defiance, while REBEL implies a more organized form of opposition. BALKS is a refusal to do something, usually because of a feeling of being overwhelmed or intimidated. Finally, DENIES is a refusal to accept the truth or reality of a situation.