transitive verb

1. to challenge or discredit (a person's honor, reputation, etc.)
2. to challenge the practices or honesty of; accuse; esp., to bring (a public official) before the proper tribunal on charges of wrongdoing

Etymology: ME empechen < OFr empechier, to hinder < LL impedicare, to fetter, entangle < L in-, in + pedica, a fetter < pes, foot

noun