impugn
- to challenge as false (another's statements, motives, etc.); cast doubt upon.
- Archaic. to assail (a person) by words or arguments; vilify.
- Obsolete. to attack (a person) physically.
Origin of impugn
Synonyms for impugn
See more synonyms for on Thesaurus.comRelated Words for impugn
assail, contravene, tar, knock, deny, blast, traduce, contradict, question, traverse, cross, resist, attack, break, oppose, negative, smear, negate, trash, slamExamples from the Web for impugn
Contemporary Examples of impugn
“I think the jury will see it as a desperate attempt to try and impugn his character,” Slotnick says.
Defense lawyers will look for inconsistencies in the same records as they try to impugn her credibility further.
Historical Examples of impugn
If you do, he will have to swear to his words; and we are perfectly sure that no one will be found to impugn him.
TheaetetusPlato
But as you are about to stake your life on the issue, I cannot impugn your sincerity.
The Daltons, Volume I (of II)Charles James Lever
Neeld admitted that he had no reason to impugn the Major's character.
Tristram of BlentAnthony Hope
I will not impugn the 174intelligence of this jury by a review of the evidence in so plain a case.
The Hindered HandSutton E. Griggs
Not being able to impugn her beauty, they attacked her costume.
Notre-Dame de ParisVictor Hugo
impugn
- (tr) to challenge or attack as false; assail; criticize
Word Origin for impugn
Word Origin and History for impugn
"attack by argument," late 14c., from Old French impugner, from Latin impugnare "to assault, to attack," from assimilated form of in- "into, in, on, upon" (see in- (2)) + pugnare "to fight" (see pugnacious). Related: Impugned; impugning.