a formal discussion of an issue at a public meeting or in a parliament. In a debate two or more speakers express opposite views and then there is often a vote ...

debate · talk to speak in order to give information, express feelings, or share ideas:We talked on the phone for over an hour. · discuss (somewhat formal) to talk ...

debate · discussion a detailed conversation about something that is considered to be important:Discussions are still taking place between the two countries.

There is one meaning in OED's entry for the noun debate. See 'Meaning & use' for definition, usage, and quotation evidence. This word is now obsolete.

debate to discuss something, especially formally, before making a decision or finding a solution: Politicians will be debating the bill later this week. consult ...

​the activity of discussing something, especially formally, before making a decision or finding a solution. a debating society at a school.

not certain because people can have different ideas and opinions about the thing being discussed. synonym arguable, questionable.

a discussion, esp. one in which several people with different opinions about something discuss them seriously, or the process of discussing something:.

debating, n. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary.

debater ... a person who is involved in a debate He was one of the most accomplished debaters in the government. Take your English to the next level. The ...