contentious
UK: kənˈtenʃəs | US: kənˈtenʃəs
adj. likely to cause disagreement or argument
adj. inclined to argue or dispute
contentious = content<strive, dispute> + ious<adjective suffix>
- content (from Latin contentus, past participle of contendere "to strive, dispute")
- ious (adjective-forming suffix indicating "full of" or "characterized by")
Etymology Origin:
The word contentious traces back to the Latin contendere, meaning "to stretch, strive, or dispute." The root content reflects the idea of conflict or competition, while the suffix -ious turns it into an adjective describing someone or something prone to disagreement. Over time, the word evolved to emphasize a quarrelsome nature, retaining its core connection to dispute.
The debate became increasingly contentious as neither side would compromise.
She avoided contentious topics at family gatherings to keep the peace.
The court case was highly contentious, drawing widespread media attention.
His contentious remarks sparked a heated argument among colleagues.
The new policy proved contentious, dividing public opinion sharply.