Contend is a verb that means to struggle or compete with someone or something. It is a versatile word with several synonyms that can be used interchangeably. Some of the most common synonyms of contend are: compete, fight, battle, challenge, rival, argue, dispute, and grapple. Each synonym emphasizes a different aspect of the struggle, such as engaging in a fierce competition, engaging in a physical or verbal altercation, or challenging someone's ideas or beliefs. Depending on the context, any of these synonyms can be used instead of contend to convey a similar meaning. Overall, the variety of synonyms for contend makes it a flexible word that can be used in various situations.