contention

UK: kənˈtɛnʃən | US: kənˈtɛnʃən

Definition
  1. n. a heated disagreement or argument

  2. n. a claim or assertion made in a debate

  3. n. competition or rivalry

Structure
con <together>tent <stretch>ion <noun suffix>
Etymology

contention = con<together> + tent<stretch> + ion<noun suffix>

  • con (Latin cum): "together" or "with"
  • tent (Latin tendere): "to stretch" or "strive"
  • ion: noun-forming suffix indicating an action or state

Etymology Origin:
The word "contention" originates from Latin contentio, derived from contendere ("to stretch together" or "strive vigorously"). The root tendere (to stretch) metaphorically evolved to mean "striving" in competition or debate. Over time, contention came to signify both the act of arguing and the state of rivalry, reflecting its roots in physical and metaphorical tension.

Examples
  1. The political debate was marked by fierce contention.

  2. Her contention that the policy was flawed sparked further discussion.

  3. There is ongoing contention between the two teams over the championship title.

  4. The scientists presented their contention with supporting evidence.

  5. The meeting ended without resolution, leaving the contention unresolved.