challenge
UK: ˈtʃæl.ɪndʒ | US: ˈtʃæl.ɪndʒ
n. 1. A difficult task or problem that tests someone's abilities.
n. 2. An invitation to compete in a contest or duel.
vt. 1. To dispute the truth or validity of something.
vt. 2. To invite someone to engage in a competition.
challenge = chal<false claim> + lenge<legal dispute>
- chal (from Old French chalongier "accuse, claim," derived from Latin calumnia "false accusation, trickery")
- lenge (from Old French -enge, a suffix denoting legal or formal action, influenced by Latin -antia "action or state")
Etymology Origin:
The word "challenge" originated in medieval legal contexts, where it referred to an accusation or claim (often false). Over time, it evolved to mean a formal summons to combat (e.g., a duel) and later broadened to include any test of skill or defiance. The morphemes reflect its roots in adversarial proceedings, combining the idea of accusation (chal) with a formalized action (lenge).
She accepted the challenge to climb Mount Everest.
The lawyer challenged the witness's testimony.
The new job posed a significant challenge to his skills.
He issued a challenge to his rival for a chess match.
The scientist faced the challenge of proving her theory.