challenges; challenged; challenging
1
: to say or show that (something) may not be true, correct, or legal : dispute
A number of doctors are challenging the study's claims.
The new lawsuit challenges the lower court's decision.
The new data challenges many old assumptions. [=the new data gives people reasons to doubt many old assumptions]
2
a
: to question the action or authority of (someone)
She's been challenged on her handling of the problem.
None of them were willing to challenge the referee on the call.
b
law
: to question whether (someone) should serve on a jury
challenge a juror
3
: to test the ability, skill, or strength of (someone or something) : to be difficult enough to be interesting to (someone)
It's a game that will challenge a child's imagination.
The work doesn't challenge him anymore, and he's often bored.
4
: to invite (someone) to compete in a game, fight, etc.
—usually + to
I challenge you to a game of chess.
The duke challenged him to a duel.
5
: to order (someone) to stop and prove who he or she is
The sentry challenged the stranger at the gate.
plural challenges
1
: a difficult task or problem : something that is hard to do
The next major challenge for the company is to improve its distribution capabilities.
Teaching adolescents can be quite a challenge.
The band feels ready for new challenges.
If he takes on the new project he will face the greatest challenge of his career.
Passing the test was hardly a challenge [=was very easy] for her.
The coach is confident that you will rise to the challenge. [=the coach is confident that you will succeed]
Management is seeking ways to better meet the challenge of future growth.
The ski slope offers a high degree of challenge.
2
: an action, statement, etc., that is against something : a refusal to accept something as true, correct, or legal
—often + to
The lawsuit is a challenge to the lower court's decision.
Both teachers have had to deal with many challenges to their authority.
3
a
: an invitation to compete in a game, fight, etc.
Do you accept my challenge to a game of chess?
b
: an attempt to defeat someone in a competition
The senator may face a challenge from within her own party.
4
: an order to someone to stop and say who he or she is
The intruder fled at the sentry's challenge.
Cite this Entry
“Challenge.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/challenge. Accessed 18 Apr. 2026.
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