Definitions

1. noun

a state of prolonged public disagreement, debate, or dispute, often caused by a difference of opinion or a conflict of interests

“The politician’s remarks sparked a controversy that lasted for weeks.”

2. noun

a disputed or debated question or topic

“The ethics of cloning is a major controversy in the scientific community.”

3. verb

to cause or be the cause of a controversy

“Her provocative statement has been causing controversy in the media.”