Definition of debates:
(n) :
An argument, or discussion, usually in an ordered or formal setting, often with more than two people, generally ending with a vote or other decision.
(v) :
(ambitransitive, reciprocal) To participate in a debate; to dispute, argue, especially in a public arena.
(n) :
(uncountable) Discussion of opposing views.
(n) :
An informal and spirited but generally civil discussion of opposing views.
(v) :
(transitive) To consider (to oneself), to think over, to attempt to decide
(n) :
(frequently in the French form débat) A type of literary composition, taking the form of a discussion or disputation, commonly found in the vernacular medieval poetry of many European countries, as well as in medieval Latin.