Definition of impugn

The word "impugn" originates from the Middle English language, and it can be traced back to the 14th century. The Old French word "impuigner" is the root from which "impugn" derives. "Impugn" shares a similar origin with the Old French word "puigner," meaning "to thrust" or "to strike." The prefix "im-" in "impugn" is a Latin prefix that signifies negation, contradiction, or opposition. This prefix changes the original meaning of "puigner" by adding the meaning "to oppose" or "to challenge" to the word. The meaning of "impugn" in Middle English was very similar to its contemporary meaning, which is "to challenge the truth, validity, or integrity of." In Old French, "impuigner" also had the meaning "to oppose" or "to resist," which matches the Latin prefix's explanation. The spelling of "impugn" in Middle English was "impugnyen," which later became "impugnen" and then "impugnen" in the 15th century. The modern spelling "impugn" was established in the 16th century. In short, "impugn" derives from the Old French word "impuigner," which is a combination of two words, "imp-" and "puigner." The meaning of "impugn" in Middle English was almost identical to its contemporary use, which is "to challenge the truth, validity, or integrity of." This change reflects the meaning of the Latin prefix "im-" and the Old French root "puigner," which suggests "to oppose." The spelling of the word varied in Middle English but settled into its modern form in the 16th century.