contest

CONTEST, v.t. [L., have a different sense, being equivalent to the English attest. See Test.]

1. To dispute; to strive earnestly to hold or maintain; to struggle to defend. The troops contested every inch of ground.

2. To dispute; to argue in opposition to; to controvert; to litigate; to oppose; to call in question; as, the advocate contested every point.

None have contested the proportion of these ancient pieces.

CONTEST, v.i.

1. To strive; to contend; followed by with.

The difficulty of an argument adds to the pleasure of contesting with it, when there are hopes of victory.

2. To vie; to emulate.

Of man who dares in pomp with Jove contest.

CONTEST, n.

1. Strife; struggle for victory, superiority, or in defense; struggle in arms. All Europe engaged in the contest against France. The contest was furious.

2. Dispute; debate; violent controversy; strife in argument.

Leave all noisy contests, all immodest clamors, and brawling language.