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 once beloved royal couple have instead become divisive figures on the world stage. — Martha Ross, Mercury News, 13 July 2026 The divisive trend first crossed my desk when Jennifer Lawrence stepped out in Paloma Wool’s sheer sarong-style version of the piece last summer, pairing the flowy garment with a cool oversized T-shirt and strappy sling-backs. — Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 11 July 2026 Privacy concerns put pressure on local governments The technology can be highly divisive, with one survey of Portland, Oregon, residents finding roughly 48% supported and 51% opposed the city using the devices in their neighborhood. — N'dea Yancey-Bragg, USA Today, 11 July 2026 If the real-life shark sculpture was a controversial point of community debate, however, Rebekah Fortune‘s highly likable, heart-on-sleeve tearjerker won’t be nearly as divisive. — Guy Lodge, Variety, 10 July 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

Rhymes for divisive

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Browse Nearby Words

division wall
divisive
divisor
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Cite this Entry

“Divisive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/divisive. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

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Nglish: Translation of divisive for Spanish Speakers

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