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 governor has focused too much time on divisive issues, and demanded all members follow his lead. Eleanor Dearman, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Feb. 2026 This film, like most everything Emerald Fennell touches, is going to be divisive. Kathleen Newman-Bremang, Refinery29, 13 Feb. 2026 That’s how divisive this man is. Abigail Wise, Outside, 13 Feb. 2026 The bill was met with support from gubernatorial candidate and current Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, while Senate Democrats pushed back against the move saying Republicans were quickly moving away from affordability issues to divisive topics in an election year, according to the Georgia Recorder. Irene Wright, USA Today, 13 Feb. 2026 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 16 Feb. 2026.

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