ˈkɑːntrəˌvɚsi 
British ˈkɒntrəˌvəːsi,
kənˈtrɒvəsi
plural controversies
: argument that involves many people who strongly disagree about something : strong disagreement about something among a large group of people
The decision aroused/created much controversy among the students.
The new movie is a subject/topic of controversy.
There is controversy surrounding the team's decision to trade the star pitcher.
The controversy is over whether he should be fired or not.
A controversy arose over the new law.
Cite this Entry
“Controversy.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/controversy. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.
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