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
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As interest in the application surged, so too did divisive discussions. Kathryn Palmer, USA Today, 29 July 2025 And Rodriguez has six more years to be voted on by writers, who have yet to give him half of the 75 percent needed for election. Steroids and gambling — the most explosive, divisive factors in evaluating historic greatness — invariably cloud the selection process. Tyler Kepner, New York Times, 28 July 2025 Why isn't Adrian Grenier returning for The Devil Wears Prada 2? EW exclusively reported in June that Grenier, who portrayed Andy's divisive boyfriend Nate Cooper in the first film, wouldn't return for The Devil Wears Prada 2. EW.com, 28 July 2025 Earlier this week, the actress was spotted making the divisive (yet incredibly comfy) footwear trend look sleek and sophisticated while out in NYC by styling a black pair of flip-flops with a sleeveless maxi dress and a spacious tote bag. Averi Baudler, People.com, 25 July 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

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Cite this Entry

“Divisive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/divisive. Accessed 2 Aug. 2025.

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