This word means "to accuse" (especially an official),"to bring charges against," "to challenge the credibility of someone," "to call to account." Impeach comes from a Latin term meaning "to trap," and, contrary to widespread opinion, does not mean "to convict," "to find guilty." President Andrew Johnson was impeached; that is, charges were brought by the House of Representatives, but he was not convicted (found guilty) by the Senate. To impeach is to indict, not to convict. Impeachment is followed by a trial to determine guilt or innocence.
Dictionary of problem words and expressions. Harry Shaw. 1975.