contend

[kuhn-tend]

verb (used without object)

1. to struggle in opposition.

   to contend with the enemy for control of the port.

   Synonyms: fight, battle, grapple, wrestle

2. to strive in rivalry; compete; vie.

   to contend for first prize.

3. to strive in debate; dispute earnestly.

   to contend against falsehood.

   Synonyms: wrangle, argue
   Antonyms: agree

verb (used with object)

1. to assert or maintain earnestly.

   He contended that taxes were too high.

   Synonyms: claim, hold

contend

/ kənˈtɛnd /

verb

1. to struggle in rivalry, battle, etc; vie

2. to argue earnestly; debate

3. (tr; may take a clause as object) to assert or maintain

Other Word Forms

• contender noun
• contendingly adverb
• noncontending adjective
• precontend verb (used without object)
• recontend verb (used without object)
• uncontended adjective
• uncontending adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of contend¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English contenden, from Anglo-French contendre, from Latin contendere “to compete, strive, draw tight,” equivalent to con- prefix meaning “with, together” + tendere “to stretch”; con-, tend ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of contend¹

C15: from Latin contendere to strive, from com- with + tendere to stretch, aim

Synonym Study

See compete.

Example Sentences

The author contends that Kennedy’s actions represent a betrayal of trust, specifically highlighting how Kennedy demanded that Monarez endorse findings from his handpicked vaccine advisory committee before seeing evidence and fire CDC personnel without cause.

From Los Angeles Times

“I am an optimist, dummy that I am,” Anderson contends.

From Los Angeles Times

The Bush administration unveiled a revamped citizenship test Thursday intended to promote assimilation and patriotism -- a redesign some critics contend erects a higher hurdle for immigrants who want to become citizens.

From Los Angeles Times

He did not offer specifics, but dismissed Eagle’s medical alibi, contending the teen “wasn’t on crutches” when police arrested him.

From Los Angeles Times

They are contending not only with higher prices, but with a logistical and customer service headache.

From Salon

Related Words

• argue 
• confront 
• cope 
• dispute 
• go after 
• grapple 
• meet 
• oppose 
• push for www.thesaurus.com
• resist 
• vie