Langimage
English

debating

|de-bat-ing|

B2

/dɪˈbeɪtɪŋ/

(debate)

formal discussion

Base FormPluralPlural3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleAdjective
debatedebatesdebatersdebatesdebateddebateddebatingdebated
Etymology
Etymology Information

'debate' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'debatre,' where 'de-' meant 'down' and 'batre' meant 'to beat.'

Historical Evolution

'debatre' transformed into the Middle English word 'debaten,' and eventually became the modern English word 'debate.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to fight or contend,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to discuss or argue formally.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

engaging in a formal discussion or argument about a particular topic.

The students are debating the pros and cons of the new policy.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

present participle form of 'debate'.

They are debating whether to go on the trip.

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40