Dictionary definition for: Contentious
1. (s) inclined or showing an inclination to dispute or disagree, even to engage in law suits; "a style described as abrasive and contentious" "a disputatious lawyer" "a litigious and acrimonious spirit"
2. (s) involving or likely to cause controversy; "a central and contentious element of the book"- Tim W.Ferfuson
3. (s) having or showing a ready disposition to fight; "bellicose young officers" "a combative impulse" "a contentious nature"
WordNet 2.1 Copyright Princeton University. All rights reserved.