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.
verb
- (tr) to challenge or attack as false; assail; criticize
“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.