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

Lawsuits, bureaucratic battles, boisterously divisive council arguments and vicious social media debates have been part of Bloomfield life for years, and intensified during Danielle Wong’s contentious time as mayor. — Don Stacom, Hartford Courant, 18 Aug. 2026

The four-hour project promises a deep dive on the world’s richest man, who might also be one of its most divisive. — David Bloom, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

From the divisive barrel-leg and ultralow-rise styles to the return of skinny jeans, there has been no shortage of denim shapes to debate—and, in many cases, internet discourses to fuel. — Christina Holevas, Vogue, 18 Aug. 2026

And Gaza and support for Israel has become another really divisive issue in this party. — ABC News, 16 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1642, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for divisive

• decisive
• incisive
• indecisive