noun

• An argument, or discussion, usually in an ordered or formal setting, often with more than two people, generally ending with a vote or other decision.
• An informal and spirited but generally civil discussion of opposing views.
• Discussion of opposing views.
• (frequently in the French form débat) A type of literary composition, taking the form of a discussion or disputation, commonly found in the vernacular medieval poetry of many European countries, as well as in medieval Latin.
• Strife, discord.