divisive

adjective

di·​vi·​sive də-ˈvī-siv How to pronounce divisive (audio)
also
-ˈvi- How to pronounce divisive (audio)
 or  -ziv
: creating disunity or dissension
a divisive issue
divisive rhetoric
divisively adverb
divisiveness noun

Examples of divisive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The speech comes as Kennedy Jr. faces scrutiny for divisive views on the food industry, autism and vaccine skepticism. Sandy Mazza, USA Today, 26 Apr. 2025 First female Vatican appointments Another divisive aspect of Francis’ legacy is his elevation of women within the Vatican. Christopher Parker, Smithsonian Magazine, 21 Apr. 2025 His leadership also proved somewhat divisive; he was widely considered to be a modern and tolerant pontiff, which occasionally angered the more conservative members of his church. Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Apr. 2025 The Supreme Court Decision means the prime minister can avoid wading into the divisive debate and point to the court’s language. Lauren Kent, CNN Money, 19 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for divisive

Word History

First Known Use

1642, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of divisive was in 1642

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Divisive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/divisive. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on divisive

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!