The noun debate has 2 senses (first 2 from tagged texts)
1. (17) argument, argumentation, debate -- (a discussion in which reasons are advanced for and against some proposition or proposal; "the argument over foreign aid goes on and on")
2. (5) debate, disputation, public debate -- (the formal presentation of and opposition to a stated proposition (usually followed by a vote))
Overview of verb debate
The verb debate has 4 senses (first 4 from tagged texts)
1. (2) debate -- (argue with one another; "We debated the question of abortion"; "John debated Mary")
2. (1) consider, debate, moot, turn over, deliberate -- (think about carefully; weigh; "They considered the possibility of a strike"; "Turn the proposal over in your mind")
3. (1) debate, deliberate -- (discuss the pros and cons of an issue)
4. (1) argue, contend, debate, fence -- (have an argument about something)