impeach
UK: ɪmˈpiːtʃ | US: ɪmˈpiːtʃ
vt. to charge (a public official) with misconduct in office
vt. to challenge the validity or credibility of something
impeach = im<in, into> + peach<to accuse>
- im<in, into>: From Latin in-, meaning "in" or "into," often used as an intensifier.
- peach<to accuse>: From Old French empeechier (to hinder, accuse), derived from Latin impedicare (to entangle, fetter), from pedica (shackle).
Etymology Origin:
The word impeach originally meant "to hinder" or "entangle" in Old French, reflecting its Latin root impedicare (to fetter). Over time, it evolved to mean "to accuse" or "charge with wrongdoing," particularly in a legal or political context. The modern sense of accusing a public official of misconduct retains the idea of "binding" them to accountability.
The House voted to impeach the president for abuse of power.
The defense lawyer sought to impeach the witness's credibility.
Historical records show attempts to impeach judges for corruption.
Critics argue the evidence is insufficient to impeach the official.
The senator faced impeachment proceedings after the scandal.