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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.
The original trilogy is legendary — the perfect thing to hook a budding fan — while the prequel and sequel trilogies are pivotal yet divisive. Katie Rife, Entertainment Weekly, 30 Nov. 2025 That’s a very divisive question among the fans these days. Lexy Perez, HollywoodReporter, 29 Nov. 2025 For the event’s opening night—now in its 22nd year—Ortega opted for a quietly dramatic (and a little bit divisive) red-carpet moment. Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 29 Nov. 2025 Taylor Swift reaches new heights with her latest album, which is both divisive and record-breaking. NPR, 28 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 7 Dec. 2025.

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