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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The brisk, nasty chill cast by the film may prove divisive; ditto its unapologetically ghastly characters. Guy Lodge, Variety, 4 June 2026 Brittney Griner, the WNBA's most divisive player before Angel Reese, showed Angel who was still in charge Tuesday night. Zach Dean Outkick, FOXNews.com, 3 June 2026 Sting resuscitates his critically divisive Broadway musical at the Met Opera. Joe Reid, Vulture, 3 June 2026 White jeans are a divisive trend that tons of celebrities have cemented as a spring and summer staple. Essence Wiley, InStyle, 3 June 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 7 Jun. 2026.

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