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. beyond (or past or without) dispute certainly; indisputably. in dispute 1 being argued about. 2 (of a workforce) involved in industrial action. disputant n. disputer n.
[ ME f. OF desputer f. L disputare estimate (as DIS-, putare reckon) ]