disputed
Americanadjective
-
argued or debated about.
Just when and where the religious practice of the “camp meeting” originated is a disputed question.
-
argued against; called into question.
He stood by his widely disputed claim that margarine is better for you than butter.
-
quarreled or fought over; contested.
As negotiations continue, the security situation in the disputed territories is tense and shows signs of escalating.
verb
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of disputed
First recorded in 1605–15; dispute ( def. ) + -ed 2 ( def. ) for the adjective senses; dispute ( def. ) + -ed 1 ( def. ) for the verb sense
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In Mogadishu, resident Muqtar Hussein said the situation in South West "illustrates the risks of proceeding with disputed elections without political consensus".
From Barron's ● Oct. 15, 2026
Kabila, 55, ruled DR Congo from 2001 until January 2019, when Tshisekedi took office following a disputed election.
From BBC ● Oct. 13, 2026
Clarkson disputed the explanation, saying she had pointed to a $15,000 price tag and been told the bird was available.
From Salon ● Oct. 12, 2026
Ortiz said Byrd showed up late and unprepared for Ortiz Jara’s June 5 court date, which Byrd disputed.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 11, 2026
The origins of their language are among the most disputed questions of linguistics: for not a single other one of the world’s major languages are the affinities to other languages still in doubt.
From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond
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