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

Other Word Forms

• impugnable adjective
• impugnability noun
• impugner noun
• impugnment noun
• unimpugnable adjective
• unimpugned adjective
• impugnation noun

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

“I want to make a difference … They have to castigate, they have to impugn my motives. Because, if I’m right, what does that say about them?”

Read more on Salon

"On merit too, it is held that impugned transactions cannot be classified as manipulative or fraudulent transactions or unfair trade practices," the order notes.

Read more on BBC

These were not Trumpers or Harris haters looking to impugn or embarrass the former vice president.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

"He impugned the integrity of the institutions at the heart of Scottish democracy," she writes, adding: "He was prepared to traumatise, time and again, the women at the centre of it all".

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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.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• assail 
• contravene 
• tar