impugn

[ im-pyoon ]

verb (used with object)

1. to challenge as false (another's statements, motives, etc.); cast doubt upon.

   Synonyms: censure, criticize, malign, asperse, attack

2. Archaic. to assail (a person) by words or arguments; vilify.
3. Obsolete. to attack (a person) physically.

impugn

/ ˌɪmpʌɡˈneɪʃən; ɪmˈpjuːn /

verb

1. tr to challenge or attack as false; assail; criticize

Derived Forms

• imˈpugner, noun
• imˈpugnable, adjective
• impugnation, noun

Other Words From

• im·pugna·ble adjective
• im·pugna·bili·ty noun
• im·pugner noun
• im·pugnment noun
• unim·pugna·ble adjective
• unim·pugned adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of impugn¹

1325–75; Middle English impugnen < Middle French impugner < Latin impugnāre to attack, equivalent to im- im- ¹ + pugnāre to fight, derivative of pugnus fist; pugnacious

Word History and Origins

Origin of impugn¹

C14: from Old French impugner, from Latin impugnāre to fight against, attack, from im- + pugnāre to fight

Example Sentences

That’s not to say that a cynic would be shocked if somebody donated to charity or helped a stranger, but they might suspect or impugn the person’s motives.

From Los Angeles Times

Trump’s surrogates are also making vile statements and suggestions about her past intimate and dating life in an attempt to impugn her character and dignity.

From Salon

Sure, he questioned whether Kamala Harris loves her country, impugned her intelligence and accused her of being a "communist" multiple times.

From BBC

X had argued that the tribunal had no jurisdiction over the company because it had no presence in Queensland and the “impugned conduct” took place outside Queensland.

From Seattle Times

In cross-examination Tuesday, Trump lawyer Susan Necheles grilled Daniels about her memoir and her ire for Trump in a bid to impugn her credibility in front of jurors.

From Salon

Related Words

• assail
• contravene
• tar