Debate (parliamentary procedure)
WordNet
noun
(1) A discussion in which reasons are advanced for and against some proposition or proposal
"The argument over foreign aid goes on and on"
(2) The formal presentation of and opposition to a stated proposition (usually followed by a vote)
verb
(3) Argue with one another
"We debated the question of abortion"
"John debated Mary"
(4) Have an argument about something
(5) Discuss the pros and cons of an issue
(6) Think about carefully; weigh
"They considered the possibility of a strike"
"Turn the proposal over in your mind"
WiktionaryText
Etymology
From , from Romanic , from + .
Noun
- An argument, or discussion, usually in an ordered or formal setting, often with more than two people, generally ending with a vote or other decision.
- After a four-hour debate, the committee voted to table the motion.
- An informal and spirited but generally civil discussion of opposing views.
- The debate over the age of the universe is thousands of years old.
- There was a bit of a debate over who should pay for the damaged fence.
- Discussion of opposing views.
- There has been considerable debate concerning exactly how to format these articles.
- (Frequently in French form débat) a type of literary composition, taking the form of a discussion or disputation, commonly found in the vernacular medieval poetry of many European countries, as well as in medieval Latin.