[de.bate] n (13c): a contention by words or arguments: as a: the formal discussion of a motion before a deliberative body according to the rules of parliamentary procedure b: a regulated discussion of a proposition between two matched sides
[2]debate vb de.bat.ed ; de.bat.ing [ME, fr. MF debatre, fr. OF, fr. de- + batre to beat, fr. L battuere] vi (14c) 1 obs: fight, contend
2. a: to contend in words b: to discuss a question by considering opposed arguments
3: to participate in a debate ~ vt 1 a: to argue about b: to engage (an opponent) in debate
2: to turn over in one's mind syn see discuss -- de.bate.ment n -- de.bat.er n