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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.
Greene said her decision was motivated by the desire to spare her district from a contentious and divisive primary challenge instigated by the president. Deputy News Editor, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 Nov. 2025 The latest policy that was rolled out Thursday night also unequivocally banned the display of any divisive or hate symbols from all Coast Guard locations. Konstantin Toropin, Fortune, 22 Nov. 2025 While social media can be divisive, the holiday season is, in particular, a time of heightened compassion, Lightman said. Melina Khan, USA Today, 22 Nov. 2025 Faced with an unstoppable onslaught of divisive political messaging, social cohesion could break down and government decision-making processes could become paralyzed. James P. Rubin, Foreign Affairs, 19 Nov. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Divisive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/divisive. Accessed 1 Dec. 2025.

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