impugn

[ im-pyoon ]
/ ɪmˈpyun /

verb (used with object)

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

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

OTHER WORDS FROM impugn

WORDS THAT MAY BE CONFUSED WITH impugn

impugn impute

Example sentences from the Web for impugned

British Dictionary definitions for impugned

impugn
/ (ɪmˈpjuːn) /

verb

(tr) to challenge or attack as false; assail; criticize

Derived forms of impugn

impugnable, adjective impugnation (ˌɪmpʌɡˈneɪʃən) or impugnment, noun impugner, noun

Word Origin for impugn

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