impugn

[im-pyoon] / ɪmˈpyun /

VERB

criticize, challenge

Synonyms

STRONGEST

assail contravene tar

STRONG

attack blast break contradict cross deny dispute gainsay knock negate negative oppose question resist slam smear traduce trash traverse zap

WEAK

call into question cast doubt upon come down on cut to shreds disaffirm pin something on put down run down skin alive stick it to swipe at throw doubt on throw the book at thumb nose at zing

Antonyms

STRONG

agree aid allow approve assist compliment concede confirm corroborate go along help join praise stay support

WEAK

flatter

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In the latter, he said he did not impugn the jurors — who were not present — but was advising the just-acquitted defendant to stay out of trouble.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

Ms. Nuzzi will not dignify efforts to impugn her character with any future response,” Nuzzi’s lawyer Ari Wilkenfeld said in a statement.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 4, 2025

Stories like these are not told to impugn the professionalism and ethics of the American military.

From Slate • Jun. 10, 2025

Their best approach would be to impugn the credibility of the witnesses on the cross-examination, with the most vulnerable witness being Michael Cohen.

From Salon • Apr. 23, 2024

In the remarks that I have made upon its doings, I have had no design to impugn its motives.

From Recollections of Windsor Prison; Containing Sketches of its History and Discipline with Appropriate Strictures and Moral and Religious Reflection by Reynolds, John N.

Vocabulary lists containing impugn

First Man: The Life of Neil A. Armstrong

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Hidden Figures

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

The Merchant of Venice

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!