debate
UK[dɪˈbeɪt]US[dɪˈbeɪt]
n
a formal discussion of an issue at a public meeting or in a parliament, in which opposing arguments are put forward
n
an argument or discussion expressing different opinions
v
to discuss something formally or publicly so that opposing arguments can be considered
v
to consider something carefully before making a decision
Morpheme Breakdown
de
bate
de
down, completely
bate
to beat
Etymology
the word 'debate' entered english in the late 14th century from the old french 'debatre', meaning 'to fight, contend, or discuss'. this old french term was itself a compound of the latin prefix 'de-' (down, completely) and 'battuere' (to beat, strike). the literal sense was therefore 'to beat down' or 'to fight it out'. over time, this combative physical imagery evolved into the metaphorical sense of a verbal contest, where arguments are 'beaten out' through discussion. the modern meaning retains this core idea of a structured clash of opposing viewpoints, though now conducted with words rather than weapons.
Analysis
Structure: de (down, completely) + bate (to beat)
de- is a Latin prefix meaning 'down' or 'completely'. bate is from the Latin verb 'battuere', meaning 'to beat'.
Examples
the parliamentary debate on the new law lasted for over six hours.
there is considerable debate among scientists about the cause of the phenomenon.
she debated whether to accept the job offer or continue her studies.