contest
contest Lexical Profile
contest Game Scores & Validity
• noun
An organized event in which people compete for supremacy, a prize, or a title in a particular sport, activity, or quality.
"She won first prize in the national photography contest."
A struggle or effort to gain power, control, or victory.
"The election quickly turned into a fierce contest between the two leading candidates."
• verb
To oppose, dispute, or challenge the validity of a statement, decision, or legal claim.
"The relatives decided to contest the terms of the will in court."
To engage in a competition or campaign in order to win a title, position, or seat of power.
"Three political parties will contest the upcoming parliamentary seat."
Word Nuance & Usage
'Contest' is a heteronym: when used as a noun, the stress falls on the first syllable (CON-test); when used as a verb, the stress shifts to the second syllable (con-TEST).
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 16th century from French 'contester' or directly from Latin 'contestari', meaning 'to call to witness' or 'to initiate a lawsuit by calling witnesses', formed from 'com-' (together) and 'testis' (witness).