noun

1. a demand for identification a sentry gave the challenge
2. a calling into question; a demanding of proof, explanation, etc. a challenge of the premises of an argument
3. a call or dare to take part in a duel, contest, etc.
4. anything, as a demanding task, that calls for special effort or dedication
5. ☆ an objection to a vote or to someone's right to vote
6. Law a formal objection or exception to a person who has been chosen as a prospective juror

Etymology: ME & OFr chalenge, accusation, claim, dispute < L calumnia, calumny

transitive verb challenged -·lenged, challenging -·leng·ing

1. to call to a halt for identification
2. 1. to call to account
   2. to make objection to; call into question
3. to call or dare to take part in a duel, contest, etc.; defy
4. to call for; make demands on to challenge the imagination
5. ☆ to object to (a vote) as not valid or (a prospective voter) as not qualified to vote
6. to take formal exception to (a prospective juror)

intransitive verb