Definition
A formal argument between candidates designed to change nobody's mind while making everyone feel like they won—the political equivalent of yelling at strangers on the internet but televised.
Example Usage
The presidential debate generated thousands of fact-checks, each one ignored by the people who needed it most.
Origin
From Latin 'debattere,' to beat down in argument.
Fun Fact
Presidential debate viewership has remained stable for decades despite the internet, suggesting people actually enjoy scheduled arguments.
Source: Electoral process terminology
Related Terms
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See “Debate” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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