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
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Arbeloa was one of Jose Mourinho’s staunchest defenders during the Portuguese manager’s divisive time in charge from 2010-2013 — when Mourinho fell out with then-captain and Spain icon Iker Casillas. Guillermo Rai, New York Times, 23 Apr. 2026 The series balances on-the-ground reporting with insights from historians and legal experts, fairly presenting various perspectives on this divisive issue. Patrick Hipes, Deadline, 23 Apr. 2026 Abdul El-Sayed is gaining momentum in a divisive three-way Democratic primary with an uncompromising argument for clarity on progressive priorities — Medicare for All, abolishing ICE, and ending US military aid to Israel. Burgess Everett, semafor.com, 22 Apr. 2026 But this is still Dubai, so there’s also room for the flash of Nusr-Et, the steakhouse created by divisive Turkish showman Salt Bae. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Apr. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Divisive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/divisive. Accessed 25 Apr. 2026.

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