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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Council members currently use a simple majority system of five or more votes to pass new laws, but a two-thirds majority rule change of the nine Council members would make selecting an acting mayor more arduous, especially given frequent Council splits on divisive issues. Claire Murphy, Chicago Tribune, 27 May 2026 The 250th anniversary of the United States this July arrives at a deeply divisive moment in the nation’s history, as its global standing appears increasingly fractured. Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 26 May 2026 No, of course not, because supporting Kamala Harris is not seen as divisive among those on the left. Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 25 May 2026 According to Vogue’s Laura Hawkins, calves are the new erogenous zone, and the divisive trousers are making waves both on and off the red carpet. Olivia Allen, Vogue, 25 May 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 31 May. 2026.

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