'Controversy' definitions:

Definition of 'controversy'

From: WordNet
noun
A contentious speech act; a dispute where there is strong disagreement; "they were involved in a violent argument" [syn: controversy, contention, contestation, disputation, disceptation, tilt, argument, arguing]

Definition of 'Controversy'

From: GCIDE
  • Controversy \Con"tro*ver`sy\, n.; pl. Controversies. [L. controversia, fr. controversus turned against, disputed; contro- = contra + versus, p. p. of vertere to turn. See Verse.]
  • 1. Contention; dispute; debate; discussion; agitation of contrary opinions. [1913 Webster]
  • This left no room for controversy about the title. --Locke. [1913 Webster]
  • A dispute is commonly oral, and a controversy in writing. --Johnson. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. Quarrel; strife; cause of variance; difference. [1913 Webster]
  • The Lord hath a controversy with the nations. --Jer. xxv. 31. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. A suit in law or equity; a question of right. [Obs.] [1913 Webster]
  • When any man that had a controversy came to the king for judgment. --2 Sam. xv. 2.
  • Syn: Dispute; debate; disputation; disagreement; altercation; contention; wrangle; strife; quarrel. [1913 Webster]