Emily Dickinson Lexicon

CON-TRA-DIC'TION, n. [L. contradictio.]

1. An assertion of the contrary to what has been said or affirmed; denial; contrary declaration.
2. Opposition, whether by words, reproaches, or attempts to defeat. Consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself. – Heb. xii.
3. Direct opposition or repugnancy; inconsistency with itself; incongruity or contrariety of things, words, thoughts, or propositions. These theorems involve a contradiction. If we perceive truth, we thereby perceive whatever is false in contradiction to it. – Grew.