contestation

contestation
    n 1: a contentious speech act; a dispute where there is strong
         disagreement; "they were involved in a violent argument"
         [syn: {controversy}, {contention}, {contestation},
         {disputation}, {disceptation}, {tilt}, {argument},
         {arguing}]
    

Contestation \Con`tes*ta"tion\, n. [L. contestatio testimony:
   cf. F. contestation a contesting.]
   1. The act of contesting; emulation; rivalry; strife;
      dispute. "Loverlike contestation." --Milton.
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            After years spent in domestic, unsociable
            contestations, she found means to withdraw.
                                                  --Clarendon.
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   2. Proof by witness; attestation; testimony. [Obs.]
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            A solemn contestation ratified on the part of God.
                                                  --Barrow.
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