Dispute

v. i. [imp. & p. p. DISPUTED; p. pr. & vb. n. DISPUTING.] [Lat. disputare, from prefix dis and putare, to clean, tropically, to clear up, to set in order, to reckon, to think; Fr. disputer, Pr. & Sp. disputar, It. disputare.]

1Sense 1. To contend in argument; to reason or argue a question for and against; to discuss; to debate; to altercate.

Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews. Acts xvii. 17.

2Sense 2. To strive or contend in opposition to a competitor; as, we disputed for the prize.

v. t. 1. To make a subject of disputation; to argue pro and con; to discuss.

The rest I reserve until it be disputed how the magistrate is to do herein. Milton.

2Sense 2. To strive or contend about; to contest; to struggle for the possession of.

To dispute the possession of the ground with the Spaniards. Prescott.

3Sense 3. To oppose by argument; to attempt to overthrow; to controvert; to express dissent or opposition to; to call in question; as, to dispute assertions, opinions, or arguments.

To seize goods under the disputed authority of writs of assistance. Bancroft.

4Sense 4. To contest or struggle against; to resist.

Dispute it [grief] like a man. Shak.

Synonyms—To controvert; contest; doubt; question; argue; debate; impugn.