divisive

adjective

di·​vi·​sive də-ˈvī-siv 

also

-ˈvi- 

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

But in recent years, the informal community has become more active — and, at times, more divisive. — William Melhado, Sacbee.com, 21 July 2026

How exactly to address the issue, though, has proven more divisive. — Cuyler Dunn, Kansas City Star, 21 July 2026

Years later, in 2012, Barzani would express trepidation about Iraq, then under the divisive Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, acquiring American F-16 fighter jets to rebuild its air force. — Paul Iddon, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026

Kylie Jenner made a divisive style statement in head-to-toe black during a date night at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final game on July 19. — Lara Walsh, InStyle, 19 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1642, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for divisive

• decisive
• incisive
• indecisive