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

Attention-grabbing, conversation-driving shows like “Euphoria” are the reason HBO is considered a crown jewel in a challenged entertainment landscape.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

My optimism has been challenged by the past month’s events, but I still believe the consensus is too negative.

From Barron's • Apr. 9, 2026

That opinion and prior ones have been challenged by conservation groups that want more protections and by industries that consider it too restrictive.

From Salon • Apr. 7, 2026

The father-of-two says he had previously challenged Bush about practices at Legacy.

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026

Granted, they were there because Burr challenged Hamilton, and Hamilton concluded he could not refuse the challenge without staining his honor.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis

Related Words

• debated