contend

UK: kənˈtend | US: kənˈtend

Definition
  1. vi. to struggle or compete against difficulties or opposition

  2. vt. to assert or argue a point in debate

Structure
con <together, with>tend <stretch, strive>
Etymology

contend = con<together, with> + tend<stretch, strive>

  • con: Latin prefix meaning "together" or "with," often intensifying the root's meaning.
  • tend: From Latin tendere ("to stretch, strive"), reflecting effort or direction.

Etymology Origin:
The word "contend" originates from Latin contendere, combining con- (intensifying "with") and tendere ("to stretch"). It originally described physical or metaphorical striving, such as stretching toward a goal or battling alongside others. Over time, it narrowed to emphasize competition or argumentative effort.

Examples
  1. Athletes contend for medals in the Olympics.

  2. Historians contend that the event changed the course of the war.

  3. She had to contend with strong winds during the climb.

  4. The theory is widely contended by experts.

  5. They continue to contend over the property rights.