To contend means to struggle or compete against difficulties or opposition. When you contend with a challenging math problem, you're working hard to solve it despite its difficulty. When athletes contend for a championship, they're competing fiercely to win it.

The word captures both the effort and the opposition you face. A sailor contends with stormy seas. A student might contend with a demanding schedule of homework and activities. A candidate contends for political office by campaigning against rivals.

Contend can also mean to assert something firmly, especially in an argument or debate. If you contend that recess should be longer, you're stating your position and preparing to defend it with reasons. A lawyer might contend that her client is innocent, or a scientist might contend that his theory explains the evidence best.

A contender is someone in the running for victory or success. The top three teams are contenders for the state title. When someone is described as “still in contention,” they still have a real chance to win.

The word suggests sustained effort against real resistance. You don't contend with easy things; you contend with challenges that test your abilities and determination.