DictionaryAI

allege

verb
USuh-LEJ/əˈlɛd͡ʒ/

Formsalleges, alleging, alleged

5 meanings of allege

Practice

  1. 1
    verbtransitive
    To say that something is true or that someone did something, without showing proof.

    Like pointing a finger at someone before anyone has checked the facts.

    The neighbors allege that the dog dug up their garden.

    Reporters alleged that the mayor had taken bribes.

    Similarclaim, assert, contend, maintain, charge

    Oppositedeny

    Note
  2. 2
    verbtransitive
    To give something as a reason or excuse for what you did.

    He alleged illness as his excuse for missing the meeting.

    Students often allege heavy homework as a reason for skipping practice.

    Similarcite, plead, invoke

    Note
  3. 3
    verbarchaic
    To mention or quote a writer's words to support or attack an argument.

    The preacher alleged Scripture to support every point in his sermon.

    Old scholars would allege Aristotle whenever they argued about nature.

    Note
  4. 4
    verbtransitive
    To make something lighter, smaller, or less strong.
    and suffir never your soveraynté to be alledged with your subjects,
    1470, Thomas Malory, Le Morte DarthurHere, alledged means made lighter or weaker, so your power is not lessened.

    Similarlighten, alleviate, lessen

    Note

Less common meaning

  1. 5
    verbobsoletetransitive
    To say something officially in court while under oath.
    Note

Practice

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Origins

Meanings 1–3, 5

It came into Middle English as "aleggen." The word's form may come from Old French and Latin words meaning "to clear at law," but its meaning comes from Latin "allēgāre," meaning to mention or bring forward.

Meaning 4

It came from Middle English "alleggen," from Old French and from Latin "alleviāre," meaning "to lighten." It is a doublet of "alleviate."