kənˈtenchəs adjective
Etymology: Middle English contenciose, from Latin contentiosus, from contentio contention + -osus -ose, -ous
1.
a. : given to contention : marked by an often perverse and wearisome tendency to quarrels and disputes
a contentious nature
b. : engaged in, employed in, or serving to carry on contention
contentious language
contentious objection
the most contentious , quarrelsome, disagreeing crew — George Berkeley
2. : likely to cause contention : apt to arouse argument, conflict, or marked difference of opinion
a contentious argument
a contentious issue
3. : relating to or involving the litigation of differences between contending parties
Synonyms: see belligerent