Pronunciation: [kəntˈɛstɪd] (IPA) 
The word "contested" is spelled with a "c" followed by an "o" and "n" which make the /k/ and /n/ sounds. Then, there is a "t" and "e" which make the /t/ and /ɛ/ sounds. Lastly, there is an "s" and "t" which make the /s/ and /t/ sounds. The stress is on the second syllable, making the IPA phonetic transcription of "contested" /kənˈtɛstɪd/. This word means a competition or disagreement between opposing parties.
Contested is an adjective that refers to something or someone being disputed, challenged, or subject to disagreement. It describes a situation in which opposing parties or individuals are involved in a conflict, typically in an attempt to gain control, authority, or ownership over something. The verb form of "contest" is commonly associated with disagreements, competitions, or legal disputes, and "contested" serves as the past participle or adjective form of this verb.
In a legal context, "contested" is often used to describe a case or trial where there is disagreement between opposing parties, requiring a judicial decision or resolution. It implies that there are conflicting interests or divergent viewpoints involved, and each side presents arguments, evidence, and witnesses to support their claims. These contested legal proceedings commonly occur in civil matters involving property, inheritance, contracts, or personal injury.
"Contested" can also describe situations beyond legal disputes or competitions. For instance, it can refer to contested elections, where candidates or political parties are vying for positions of power and influence. Similarly, land or territorial disputes between countries or groups can be described as contested regions or boundaries.
Overall, "contested" conveys the idea of a dispute, conflict, or competition involving divergent opinions or interests, where resolution or victory is sought by one or more parties involved.
Disputed.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "contested" comes from the Latin word "contestari", which is a combination of the prefix "con-" (meaning "with" or "together") and the root "testari" (meaning "to witness or testify"). In Latin, "contestari" referred to making a legal statement or declaration of one's intent before witnesses. Over time, the meaning of "contestari" evolved to include disputing or challenging something. Eventually, it found its way into English as "contested", which refers to something that is being argued, disputed, or contested.
