Definition of: debate

(di·bāt′) v. de·bat·ed, de·bat·ing v.t.
1. To discuss or argue about, as in a public meeting.
2. To discuss in formal argument.
3. To consider; deliberate upon in the mind, as alternatives.
4. Obs. To fight or contend for or over.
—v.i.
5. To argue; discuss.
6. To engage in formal argument.
7. To deliberate mentally; consider. See synonyms under DELIBERATE, DISPUTE.
—noun
1. The discussing of any question; argumentation; dispute; controversy.
2. A formal argument conducted systematically to test the reasoning skill of two persons or teams taking opposing sides of a specific question (the resolution).
3. Obs. Combat; strife. See synonyms under ALTERCATION, REASONING. [<OF debatre <de- down (<L de-) + batre <L batuere strike]
—de·bat′a·ble adjective
—de·bat′er noun