faction-n; 2 Senses

Sense Number 1: a small divisive group within a larger organization

Commentary: FACTION[+organization][+subdivision][+small][+divisive]
NOTE: often refers to political forces within a larger political entity

Examples:
The most left-wing faction of the Democratic party does not endorse this candidate.
Certain factions within the neo-conservative movement are breaking rank with the president.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1, 2

Sense Number 2: a state of conflict or dissension within a group

Commentary: FACTION[+state][+dissension][+ideological]
NOTE: refers to a divisive state of affairs, rather than identifying a specific subgroup.

Examples:
Members of the leadership are hoping to avoid a faction by this compromise.
The power vacuum led to a faction among the revolutionary elite.

Mappings:
WordNet 0.0 Sense Numbers: 1b