controversy

con·tro·ver·sy

noun \ˈkän-trə-ˌvər-sē, British also kən-ˈträ-vər-sē\

plural con·tro·ver·sies

Definition of CONTROVERSY

1

: a discussion marked especially by the expression of opposing views : dispute

2

: quarrel, strife

Examples of CONTROVERSY

1. The decision aroused much controversy among the students.
2. The new movie is a subject of controversy.
3. There is controversy surrounding the team's decision to trade the star pitcher.
4. The controversy is over whether he should be fired or not.
5. A controversy arose over the new law.

Origin of CONTROVERSY

Middle English controversie, from Anglo-French, from Latin controversia, from controversus disputable, literally, turned against, from contro- (akin to contra-) + versus, past participle of vertere to turn — more at worth

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to CONTROVERSY

Synonyms

altercation, argle-bargle [chiefly British], argy-bargy [chiefly British], battle royal, bicker, brawl, contretemps, argument, cross fire, disagreement, dispute, donnybrook, falling-out, fight, hassle, imbroglio, kickup, misunderstanding, quarrel, rhubarb, row, scrap, set-to, spat, squabble, tiff, wrangle

Antonyms

accord, agreement, consensus, harmony, unanimity

Related Words

clash, run-in, skirmish, tangle, tussle; logomachy; feud, vendetta; attack, contention, dissension (also dissention); debate, difference, disputation; fuss, objection, protest, protestation; affray [chiefly British], fisticuffs, fracas, fray, free-for-all, melee (also mêlée); catfight

Near Antonyms

acceptance, compliance; concord, peace