dɪsˈpju:t v. & n. --v. 1 intr. (usu. foll. by
with, against) a
debate,
argue (was disputing with
them about the meaning of life). b quarrel. 2 tr.
discuss,
esp. heatedly (disputed
whether it
was true). 3 tr.
question the
truth or correctness or validity of (a
statement, alleged
fact, etc.) (I dispute
that number). 4 tr.
contend for;
strive to
win (disputed the
crown; disputed the field). 5 tr.
resist (a
landing,
advance, etc.). --n. 1 a
controversy; a debate. 2 a quarrel. 3 a disagreement
between management and employees, esp.
one leading to
industrial action. øbeyond (or
past or without) dispute
certainly; indisputably. in dispute 1
being argued about. 2 (of a workforce) involved in industrial action. øødisputant n. disputer n. [ME f. OF desputer f. L disputare
estimate (as
DIS-, putare reckon)]