challenge

²challenge

noun

Definition of CHALLENGE

1

a : a summons that is often threatening, provocative, stimulating, or inciting; specifically : a summons to a duel to answer an affront b : an invitation to compete in a sport

2

a : a calling to account or into question : protest b : an exception taken to a juror before the juror is sworn c : a sentry's command to halt and prove identity d : a questioning of the right or validity of a vote or voter

3

: a stimulating task or problem <looking for new challenges>

4

: the act or process of provoking or testing physiological activity by exposure to a specific substance; especially : a test of immunity by exposure to an antigen

Examples of CHALLENGE

1. The next major challenge for the company is to improve its distribution capabilities.
2. Teaching adolescents can be quite a challenge.
3. The band feels ready for new challenges.
4. If he takes on the new project he will face the greatest challenge of his career.
5. Management is seeking ways to better meet the challenge of future growth.
6. The ski slope offers a high degree of challenge.
7. Do you accept my challenge to a game of chess?
8. The senator may face a challenge from within her own party.

First Known Use of CHALLENGE

14th century

Related to CHALLENGE

Synonyms: objection, complaint, demur, demurral, demurrer, difficulty, exception, expostulation, fuss, kick, protest, question, remonstrance, stink

Antonyms: answer, solution

Related Words: compunction, doubt, misgiving, qualm, scruple; misunderstanding; cavil, niggle [chiefly British], quibble; argument, conflict, debate, dispute, dissent, hassle, quarrel, squabble, static; censure, criticism; defiance, disobedience, rebellion; distrust, distrustfulness, dubiety, dubitation [archaic], incertitude, indetermination, misdoubt, mistrust, mistrustfulness, reservation, skepticism, suspicion, uncertainty; qualmishness, unease, uneasiness; reluctance, unwillingness

Near Antonyms: willingness; approval, sanction; acceptance, acquiescence, agreement, assent; compliance, obedience

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