In the theory of law, a controversy differs from a legal case; while legal cases include all suits, criminal as well as civil, a controversy is a purely civil proceeding. CONTROVERSY definition: 1. a lot of disagreement or argument about something, usually because it affects or is important to…. Learn more. The meaning of CONTROVERSY is a discussion marked especially by the expression of opposing views : dispute. How to use controversy in a sentence. Definition of controversy noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. But the moral controversy surrounding embryonic stem cells -- the fact that these cells are derived from five-day old human embryos -- has encouraged research into other types of stem cells. Controversy is a lot of discussion and argument about something, often involving strong feelings of anger or disapproval. The proposed cuts have caused considerable controversy. ...a fierce … There are five meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun controversy, three of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence. controversy /ˈkɒntrəˌvɜːsɪ; kənˈtrɒvəsɪ/ n ( pl -sies) dispute, argument, or debate, esp one concerning a matter about which there is strong disagreement and esp one carried on in public … Define controversy. controversy synonyms, controversy pronunciation, controversy translation, English dictionary definition of controversy. n. pl. con·tro·ver·sies 1. A dispute, especially a public …