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.
Mueller's team spent nearly two years quietly conducting one of the most consequential, yet divisive, investigations in Justice Department history. Arkansas Online, 22 Mar. 2026 Mueller’s stern visage and taciturn demeanor matched the seriousness of the mission, as his team spent nearly two years quietly conducting one of the most consequential, yet divisive, investigations in Justice Department history. Eric Tucker, Chicago Tribune, 21 Mar. 2026 Lawmakers consider regulations While at the local level law enforcement has become more active in combatting the video terminals, at the state level the issue has been divisive. Jack Harvel, Kansas City Star, 21 Mar. 2026 Eye cream is arguably the most divisive step of an antiaging skin-care routine. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 19 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 24 Mar. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on divisive

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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