Controversy (?), n.; pl. Controversies (#). [L. controversia, fr. controversus turned against, disputed; contro- = contra + versus, p. p. of vertere to turn. See Verse.] 1. Contention; dispute; debate; discussion; agitation of contrary opinions.
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This left no room for controversy about the title. Locke.
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A dispute is commonly oral, and a controversy in writing. Johnson.
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2. Quarrel; strife; cause of variance; difference.
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The Lord hath a controversy with the nations. Jer. xxv. 31.
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3. A suit in law or equity; a question of right. [Obs.]
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When any man that had a controversy came to the king for judgment. 2 Sam. xv. 2.

Syn. -- Dispute; debate; disputation; disagreement; altercation; contention; wrangle; strife; quarrel.
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