Infer the meaning of the word Contentious based on the context clues provided in the paragraphs.
Paragraph 1 (Character Reaction): The moment he spoke, the room fractured into competing voices, each insisting on being heard.
Paragraph 2 (Cause and Effect): Because the proposal threatened existing interests, meetings devolved into intense disputes.
Paragraph 3 (Contrast): While some discussions proceeded smoothly, this topic consistently sparked disagreement.