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.
Republicans have pushed an unusually divisive agenda, inflation is high, gas prices are soaring, ICE raids are frightening and the president has launched a Middle East war. Steven Greenhut, Oc Register, 27 Mar. 2026 Being canceled for making comments considered too rogue, insensitive, inflammatory or divisive, specifically on political topics, is something celebrities have been dealing with for decades. Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 27 Mar. 2026 In a time increasingly marked by angry, divisive rhetoric, our Rhody desire to help brings us together. Nancy Wolanski, The Providence Journal, 26 Mar. 2026 Netflix kicked off its new era as a Major League Baseball broadcaster in memorable — and divisive — fashion on Opening Night of the 2026 season. Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 26 Mar. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Divisive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/divisive. Accessed 1 Apr. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on divisive

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster