polemic Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a writer who argues in opposition to others (especially in theology)
    polemist; polemicist.
  2. noun a controversy (especially over a belief or dogma)
  3. adjective satellite of or involving dispute or controversy
    polemical.

WordNet

Po*lem"ic adjective
Etymology
Gr. warlike, fr. war: cf. F. polémique.
Definitions
  1. Of or pertaining to controversy; maintaining, or involving, controversy; controversial; disputative; as, a polemic discourse or essay; polemic theology.
  2. Engaged in, or addicted to, polemics, or to controversy; disputations; as, a polemic writer. South.
Po*lem"ic noun
Definitions
  1. One who writes in support of one opinion, doctrine, or system, in opposition to another; one skilled in polemics; a controversialist; a disputant.
    The sarcasms and invectives of the young polemic. Macaulay.
  2. A polemic argument or controversy.

Webster 1913