1 : a difficult task or problem : something that is hard to do [count] ▪ 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. [noncount] ▪ The ski slope offers a high degree of challenge. 2 [count] : 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 [count] 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 [count] : an order to someone to stop and say who he or she is
▪ The intruder fled at the sentry's challenge.