English Explanatory Dictionary

impugn

English dictionary entry

Meanings

verb
  1. To assault, attack.
  2. To verbally assault, especially to argue against an opinion, motive, or action; to question the truth or validity of; cast doubt on.

Pronunciation

/ɪmˈpjuːn/ en-us-impugn.ogg

Word forms

impugn impugns impugning impugned

Etymology

Borrowed from Middle French impugner, from Latin impugnō, from im- + pugnō (“fight”), from pugnus (“fist”), as in English pugilism (“fighting with fists, boxing”).

Synonyms

call into question challenge contest contradict deny disavow dispute oppugn negate question

Antonyms

authenticate endorse support

Derived words

impugnable impugnation impugner impugnment unimpugned
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