dispute

dispute

noun

Definition of DISPUTE

1

variance of opinion on a matter <a dispute over the proper pronunciation of “nuclear”>

Synonyms contestation, controversy, debate, difference, difficulty, disputation, dispute, dissension (also dissention), dissensus, firestorm, nonconcurrence

Related Words clash, collision, conflict, confliction, disaccord, discord, dissonance; apartness, divarication, division; combat, contention, strife, struggle; altercation, argument, bicker, falling-out, fight, kickup, misunderstanding, quarrel, set-to

Near Antonyms acceptance, compliance; concord, peace

Antonyms accord, agreement, consensus, harmony, unanimity

2

an often noisy or angry expression of differing opinions <after much dispute, the school committee decided that all backpacks would have to be stored in lockers during class hours>

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

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 m{ecirc}l{eacute}e); catfight