n. & adj. Philos.
--n.
1. a the art of investigating the truth of opinions; the testing of truth by discussion. b logical disputation.
2 a inquiry into metaphysical contradictions and their solutions, esp. in the thought of Kant and Hegel. b the existence or action of opposing social forces etc.
--adj.
1. of or relating to logical disputation.
2 fond of or skilled in logical disputation.
Etymology: ME f. OF dialectique or L dialectica f. Gk dialektike (tekhne) (art) of debate (as DIALECT)