WordWeb Online

1. The formal presentation of a stated proposition and the opposition to it (usually followed by a vote)
   - debate, public debate
    
2. A contentious speech act; a dispute where there is strong disagreement
   - controversy, contention, contestation, disceptation, tilt, argument, arguing

Derived forms: disputations

See also: dispute

Type of: conflict, difference, difference of opinion, dispute, oral presentation, public speaking, speaking, speechmaking

Encyclopedia: Disputation