Search Dictionary
Definition of contention

contention

/kənˈtɛn.ʃən/
con · ten · tion
Adverb:contentiously
•
Plural:contentions
•
Adjective:contentious
JUMP TO:

contention Lexical Profile

contention Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Heated disagreement, dispute, or discord between people or groups.

Example

"The proposed zoning law became a major source of contention among local residents."

2

An assertion, claim, or point maintained in an argument or debate.

Example

"It is the defense attorney's main contention that the witness was too far away to see clearly."

3

The act or state of competing with others for a prize, title, or position of leadership.

Example

"After winning three consecutive games, the team is back in contention for the championship."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for contention
Antonyms
View all antonyms for contention

• Rhymes for contention

• Nearby Words

contented
contentedly
contentedness
contention
contentious
contentiously
contentiousness

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French contention, from Latin contentiōnem ('a straining, exertion, or dispute'), a noun of action from the past participle stem of contendere ('to stretch out, strive after, or compete').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Contention. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/contention
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.