Allege

/əˈlɛdʒ/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To assert or maintain something to be true, typically without providing proof.

The lawyer will allege that her client was not at the scene of the incident.

To claim or state something in a way that suggests it may not necessarily be proven.

They allege that the company was involved in illegal dumping.

To invoke or cite as an authority.

The report alleges several instances of misconduct by the employees.

To assert positively but without proof.

He alleges that the novel was based on true events.

Middle English 'alege', from Old French 'aleguer', from Latin 'allegare', meaning 'to dispatch'.

allege wrongdoing:

to claim that someone has done something illegal or improper.

allege innocence:

to claim or assert that one is not guilty of a crime or wrongdoing.

allege facts:

to assert facts or information, often in a legal context.

to throw shade

She alleged that he was lying, even without proof.

to spill the tea

They allege the latest gossip about the celebrity's behavior.