What does quarrelling mean?
Quarrelling means engaging in a disagreement or argument, normally with the implication that the participants are angry, hostile, or unusually contentious. It is the present participle of “quarrel” and can describe either the activity itself, as in “the couple quarrelled all evening,” or people or behavior associated with it, as in “the quarrelling neighbours.” The word is often used when the dispute is prolonged, heated, or divisive, although it can also refer to a single argument. It is neutral in formal register rather than humorous, and it is not restricted by region, though the two-l spelling is particularly common in British usage. Related forms include “quarrel,” “quarrelled,” and “quarreller.” The word is especially useful when a writer wishes to distinguish an emotional argument from a measured discussion or negotiation.
Engaging in a dispute or argument, especially one marked by anger or animosity.
"They kept quarrelling long after the original disagreement had been settled."
This is the present-participle form of the verb “quarrel.”
Engaged in argument or engaged in quarrelling.
"The teacher separated the quarrelling pupils and listened to both sides."
Adjectival use is grammatically possible but less common than verbal use.
The word quarrel traces back to the same Latin root as question and quest: its older senses included a demand or complaint.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
Related word forms
How quarrelling is actually used
The spelling with two l's is especially associated with British English, although it is also understood in American English; “quarrel” and “quarreling” are common alternatives. The word is neutral in register but usually suggests an angry, contentious, or repeated disagreement rather than a calm discussion of differences.