Dis*pute" (?), v. i. [imp. & p. p. Disputed; p. pr. & vb. n. Disputing.] [OE. desputen, disputen, OF. desputer, disputer, F. disputer, from L. disputare, disputatum; dis- + putare to clean; hence, fig., to clear up, set in order, reckon, think. See Putative, Pure.]
To contend in argument; to argue against something maintained, upheld, or claimed, by another; to discuss; to reason; to debate; to altercate; to wrangle.
Therefore disputed [reasoned, Rev. Ver
.] he in synagogue with the Jews.
Acts xvii. 17.
© Webster 1913.
Dis*pute", v. t.
1.
To make a subject of disputation; to argue pro and con; to discuss.
The rest I reserve it be disputed how the magistrate is to do herein.
Milton.
2.
To oppose by argument or assertion; to attempt to overthrow; to controvert; to express dissent or opposition to; to call in question; to deny the truth or validity of; as, to dispute assertions or arguments.
To seize goods under the disputed authority of writs of assistance.
Bancroft.
3.
To strive or contend about; to contest.
To dispute the possession of the ground with the Spaniards.
Prescott.
4.
To struggle against; to resist.
[Obs.]
Dispute it [grief] like a man.
Shak.
Syn. -- To controvert; contest; gainsay; doubt; question; argue; debate; discuss; impugn. See Argue.
© Webster 1913.
Dis*pute", n. [Cf. F. dispute. See Dispute, v. i.]
1.
Verbal controversy; contest by opposing argument or expression of opposing views or claims; controversial discussion; altercation; debate.
Addicted more
To contemplation and profound dispute.
Milton.
2.
Contest; struggle; quarrel.
De Foe.
Beyond dispute, Without dispute, indisputably; incontrovertibly.
Syn. -- Altercation; controversy; argumentation; debate; discussion; quarrel; disagreement; difference; contention; wrangling. See Altercation.
© Webster 1913.