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.
But there is a looming risk that lawmakers will allow one politically divisive issue – federal preemption of state AI laws – to derail legislation that is otherwise needed. — Caleb Knapp, Fortune, 3 Aug. 2026 The phrase has become almost as divisive as the technology behind it. — New Atlas, 2 Aug. 2026 Reeve, a 17-year head coach in Minnesota with four WNBA titles, placed the onus on WNBA leadership to ensure the league remains an inclusive space while also maintaining safety amid increasingly divisive conversations. — Devon Henderson, New York Times, 2 Aug. 2026 Instead, far-right and MAGA politicians, influencers, and podcasters will immediately use the most divisive language possible in order to make voters as angry as possible, as fast as possible, regardless of what actually happened. — Anne Applebaum, The Atlantic, 2 Aug. 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

See All Rhymes for divisive

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 6 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on divisive

Nglish: Translation of divisive for Spanish Speakers

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