PoliticsJuly 17, 2026
dissension
/dɪˈsenʃən/
Definition
A state of disagreement, conflict, or conflicting opinions, especially within a formal group or organization.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin word 'dissensio,' which comes from 'dissentire,' meaning to disagree or feel differently. It entered Middle English via Old French to describe a breaking apart of consensus or agreement.
In the news
The article uses the term to describe internal disagreements among officials within the Trump administration regarding how to interpret China's influence on U.S. elections. This context highlights that intelligence experts held varying viewpoints rather than a singular, unified consensus.
Fact-checking Trump's address on China, the 2020 election and what documents show
Read the full article ↗PBS