1. A discussion in which reasons are advanced for and against some proposition or proposal
   "the debate over foreign aid goes on and on";
   - argument, argumentation
    
2. The formal presentation of a stated proposition and the opposition to it (usually followed by a vote)
   "The candidates engaged in a public debate on healthcare reform";
   - disputation, public debate

1. Argue with one another
   "We debated the question of abortion"; "John debated Mary"
    
2. Think about carefully; weigh
   "They debated the possibility of a strike";
   - consider, moot, turn over, deliberate
    
3. Discuss the pros and cons of an issue
   "The committee debated the merits of the proposed legislation";
   - deliberate
    
4. Have an argument about something
   "The scientists debated the ethics of genetic engineering";
   - argue, contend, fence

Derived forms: debated, debates, debating

Type of: converse, discourse, discuss, discussion, give-and-take, hash out, oral presentation, public speaking, speaking, speechmaking, talk over, word

Encyclopedia: Debate