controversial

adjective

con·​tro·​ver·​sial ˌkän-trə-ˈvər-shəl How to pronounce controversial (audio)
-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.
controversialism noun
controversialist noun
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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

Word History

Etymology

see controversy

First Known Use

1583, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of controversial was in 1583

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Controversial.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/controversial. Accessed 11 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

controversial

adjective
con·​tro·​ver·​sial ˌkän-trə-ˈvər-shəl How to pronounce controversial (audio)
-ˈvər-sē-əl
: relating to or causing controversy
a controversial movie
controversially
adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on controversial

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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