controversial
adjective
con·tro·ver·sial
ˌkän-trə-ˈvər-shəl 
-ˈvər-sē-əl
1
: of, relating to, or arousing controversy
a controversial policy
a controversial film
2
: given to controversy : disputatious
a controversial temperament
The controversial biologist caused a ferment among his colleagues.
controversially
adverb
Examples of controversial in a Sentence
Abortion is a highly controversial subject.
a decision that remains controversial
He is a controversial author.
Recent Examples on the Web
The timing coincides with Iran's controversial suspension of cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and reports of major internet disruptions across the country, suggesting ongoing tensions and potential preparations for future diplomatic or military developments.
—
Adeola Adeosun, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 July 2025
Delegates avoided any controversial subjects that might trigger Washington’s ire, analysts said.
—semafor.com, 6 July 2025
And now, a controversial debate rages over whether or not to delist the grizzly bear.
—Christine Peterson, Wired News, 5 July 2025
Still, the topic remains controversial, and CLA may be harmful rather than beneficial in some individuals.2122
How to Incorporate Cheese in a Healthy Diet
Cheese can be part of a healthy daily diet:
Read the label before selecting a cheese, as the nutrients vary widely.
—Nancy Lebrun, Verywell Health, 5 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for controversial
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Adeola Adeosun, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 July 2025
Delegates avoided any controversial subjects that might trigger Washington’s ire, analysts said.
—semafor.com, 6 July 2025
And now, a controversial debate rages over whether or not to delist the grizzly bear.
—Christine Peterson, Wired News, 5 July 2025
Still, the topic remains controversial, and CLA may be harmful rather than beneficial in some individuals.2122
How to Incorporate Cheese in a Healthy Diet
Cheese can be part of a healthy daily diet:
Read the label before selecting a cheese, as the nutrients vary widely.
—Nancy Lebrun, Verywell Health, 5 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for controversial
Cite this Entry
“Controversial.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/controversial. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
controversial
adjective
con·tro·ver·sial
ˌkän-trə-ˈvər-shəl
-ˈvər-sē-əl
: relating to or causing controversy
a controversial movie
controversially
adverb
-ē
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