impeach

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. verb challenge the honesty or veracity of
  2. verb charge (a public official) with an offense or misdemeanor committed while in office
  3. verb bring an accusation against; level a charge against

Etymology

From Middle English empechen, borrowed from Anglo-Norman empecher, from Old French empeechier (“to hinder”), from Latin impedicāre (“to fetter”). Cognate with French empêcher (“to prevent”).

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