impugn

[im-pyoon] /ɪmˈpyun/
verb (used with object)
1.
to challenge as false (another's statements, motives, etc.); cast doubt upon.
2.
Archaic. to assail (a person) by words or arguments; vilify.
3.
Obsolete. to attack (a person) physically.
Origin
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
Related forms
impugnable, adjective
impugnability, noun
impugner, noun
impugnment, noun
unimpugnable, adjective
unimpugned, adjective
Can be confused
impugn, impute.
Synonyms
1. attack, asperse, malign, criticize, censure.
Examples from the web for impugn
  • These findings are not meant to impugn your character.
  • Probation officers shall not impugn the decisions and directives of the court.
  • He didn't believe anyone took the time to impugn anyone's integrity.
British Dictionary definitions for impugn

impugn

/ɪmˈpjuːn/
verb
1.
(transitive) to challenge or attack as false; assail; criticize
Derived Forms
impugnable, adjective
impugnation (ˌɪmpʌɡˈneɪʃən), impugnment, noun
impugner, noun
Word Origin
C14: from Old French impugner, from Latin impugnāre to fight against, attack, from im- + pugnāre to fight
Word Origin and History for impugn
v.

"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.