noun

discord

DIS-kord/ˈdɪskɔːrd/

Disagreement or lack of harmony between people.

Their tense gestures reveal the discord between the two men.

Two men seated across a small table in a serious disagreement: one leans forward with an emphatic open-hand gesture while the other turns slightly away, frowning and raising a hand in objection.

Etymology

The image is of hearts apart: people divided in feeling or opinion. This underlies discord as disagreement or strife, with musical discord expressing a comparable lack of harmony.

In context

Vivid Audio Library56:30

after such sweet harmony, he might best introduce a theme of so much discord to disturb the peace of him who was so ready to welcome him kindly.

The Warden by Anthony Trollope | Full Classic Victorian British Literature Audiobook

More examples

Money is a frequent source of discord in their marriage.
The new schedule causes discord among team members.
Despite their political discord, the neighbors remain friends.

Forms

discord

discordant adjective — Showing disagreement or a lack of harmony.

Similar words

disagreement: A difference of opinion, without necessarily involving ongoing tension.
conflict: Suggests more direct opposition or struggle between people.
friction: Emphasizes irritation and tension that make cooperation difficult.