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spats

NOUN

dispute, quarrel

Synonyms

STRONGEST

altercation bickering brouhaha difference of opinion disagreement discord falling-out feud flare-up fracas friction misunderstanding run-in squabble strife tiff

STRONG

argument beef conflict dissension embroilment fuss hubbub miff row rumpus words

Antonyms

STRONGEST

agreement concord concurrence harmony peace

STRONG

calm

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The sad saga of a humpback whale stranded a month ago on the German coast has sparked a flood of compassion but also a media frenzy, angry spats, conspiracy theories and death threats.

From Barron's • Apr. 23, 2026

The tensions are so high that even comments that appear to be jokes can trigger diplomatic spats.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 27, 2026

While spats have flared up between the two countries in recent decades, fueled by historical animosity, this time it feels different, say analysts.

From BBC • Feb. 16, 2026

There are spats and hugs, frolics and bonding, and not much thrust to the tale.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 16, 2025

They made him feel like the singing men in spats.

From "Jazz" by Toni Morrison