controversy Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun a contentious speech act; a dispute where there is strong disagreement
contestation; contention; arguing; tilt; argument; disputation; disceptation.
- they were involved in a violent argument

L. controversia, fr. controversus turned against, disputed; contro- = contra + versus, p.p. of vertere to turn. See Verse.

plural Controversies

Contention; dispute; debate; discussion; agitation of contrary opinions.
This left no room for controversy about the title. Locke.

A dispute is commonly oral, and a controversy in writing. Johnson.
Quarrel; strife; cause of variance; difference.
The Lord hath a controversy with the nations. Jer. xxv. 31.
A suit in law or equity; a question of right. Obs.
When any man that had a controversy came to the king for judgment. 2 Sam. xv. 2.
Syn. -- Dispute; debate; disputation; disagreement; altercation; contention; wrangle; strife; quarrel.