challenged

American  

[chal-injd] / ˈtʃæl ɪndʒd /

adjective

1. Often Offensive. a euphemism for disabled (usually preceded by an adverb).

2. deficient or lacking (usually preceded by an adverb or noun and used facetiously).

   ethically challenged; math-challenged.

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challenged British  

/ ˈtʃælɪndʒd /

adjective

1. (in combination) disabled or disadvantaged in some way

   physically challenged performers

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Sensitive Note

See disabled.

Other Word Forms

• unchallenged adjective

Etymology

Origin of challenged

An Americanism dating back to 1980–85; challenge ( def. ) + -ed ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

Surveillance cameras and license plate readers are commonly used by investigators and have rarely been challenged.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 19, 2026

As expected, the manufacturers of the two drugs also challenged the findings, and their investors appeared unconcerned.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 18, 2026

We note how the small scale, finely drawn swirls of her sleeve are challenged by the suave oval of her face and the emphatic line of her shoulder.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

Throughout the film, the question of what gives art its value appears in several forms, challenged by Lori and Julian when their initially stilted working relationship transforms into something more intimate.

From Salon • Apr. 17, 2026

If they were challenged now, he must decide—if he’d surrender his ship—if his men would die defending it.

From "Carry On, Mr. Bowditch" by Jean Lee Latham

Related Words

• debated