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.
The reason acquisitions like OpenAI and TBPN can be so divisive is the context. Jonathan Hunt, Fortune, 11 Apr. 2026 And the show arrived at a divisive time in Jamaican politics, particularly around the rights of LGBTQ+ citizens. Zac Ntim, Deadline, 10 Apr. 2026 These Zendaya fans also have been put off by Sweeney’s desire to be seen at Jeff Bezos’s wedding last June and her choice to pursue a romantic relationship with the divisive — and 16 years older — entertainment mogul Scooter Braun. Martha Ross, Mercury News, 9 Apr. 2026 By applying legal methodologies to digital discourse, citizens can better distinguish facts from divisive slogans and propaganda. Staff, FOXNews.com, 9 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 18 Apr. 2026.

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