Contretemps is a noun that refers to a minor dispute or disagreement.

The Latin word tempus (TEM poos) means ‘time.’ Combined with the prefix C-O-N-T-R-E, which means  ‘counter’ or ‘against,’ we get a word that describes people engaged in disagreement or dispute.

With so many passionate people in the publishing industry, it’s not surprising that we would have the occasional contretemps in our office. Just the other day, a loud argument ensued over the proposed cover of a romance novel.