intransitive verb debated -·bat′ed, debating -·bat′·ing

1. to discuss opposing reasons; argue
2. to take part in a formal discussion or a contest in which opposing sides of a question are argued
3. to deliberate (with oneself or in one's own mind)
4. Obsolete to fight or quarrel

Etymology: ME debaten < OFr debatre, to fight, contend, debate: see de- & batter

transitive verb

1. to dispute about, esp. in a meeting or legislature
2. to argue (a question) or argue with (a person) formally
3. to consider reasons for and against; deliberate on

noun

1. discussion or consideration of opposing reasons; argument about or deliberation on a question
2. a formal contest of skill in reasoned argument, with two teams taking opposite sides of a specified question
3. the art or study of formal debate

Etymology: ME & OFr debat < the v.