3. To strive in debate; to engage in discussion; to dispute; to
argue.
The question which our author would contend for. Locke.
Many things he fiercely contended about were trivial. Dr. H. More.

Syn. — To struggle; fight; combat; vie; strive; oppose; emulate; contest; litigate; dispute; debate.

CONTEND
Con*tend", v. t.

Defn: To struggle for; to contest. [R.]
Carthage shall contend the world with Rome.Dryden.

CONTENDENT
Con*tend"ent, n. Etym: [L. contendens, p.pr.]

Defn: n antagonist; a contestant. [Obs.] In all notable changes and revolutions the contendents have been still made a prey to the third party. L'Estrange.

CONTENDER
Con*tend"er, n.

Defn: One who contends; a contestant.

CONTENDRESS
Con*tend"ress, n.

Defn: A female contestant. [R.]