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.
Meta also disputed the report, saying Zuckerberg had spoken to Trump only after the order was rescinded.
From Barron's • May 22, 2026
The online retailer has disputed those claims and has said it is investing in improvements.
From MarketWatch • May 19, 2026
She said the allegations were disputed by those accused, adding that she believed the broadcaster had "acted quickly, appropriately, sensitively and with wellbeing front and centre" when concerns were raised.
From BBC • May 18, 2026
Polymarket, a prediction market, faces scrutiny over its arbitration system for resolving disputed bets, where holders of digital tokens vote to decide which side won.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 18, 2026
The Fox Brothers train has been moved off the siding, and the hotly disputed elephant car is now hitched directly behind our engine, where the ride will be smoothest.
From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
