Entry Word: conflict

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 a lack of agreement or harmony <the conflict between absolute freedom and personal responsibility> — see discord
2 a physical dispute between opposing individuals or groups <an armed conflict between strikers and strikebreakers> — see fight 1
3 a state of armed violent struggle between states, nations, or groups <the United Nations strives to prevent international conflicts> — see war 1
4 an earnest effort for superiority or victory over another <the eternal conflict between the forces of good and evil> — see contest 1