divisive

adjective

di·​vi·​sive də-ˈvī-siv 

also

-ˈvi- 

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

Wisconsin Democrats are planning a statewide unity tour immediately after Tuesday’s gubernatorial primary as the party seeks to turn the page on a chaotic and ideologically divisive contest, according to Politico. — Rena Rowe, The Washington Examiner, 11 Aug. 2026

The once-divisive style has made a major comeback, popping up on stylish women everywhere from European cities to NYC. — Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 9 Aug. 2026

Created in the 1970s by a vote of the people, the coastal commission has had to navigate some of the most high-profile and divisive battles in the state and has had no shortage of critics. — Rosanna Xia, Los Angeles Times, 7 Aug. 2026

This is one of Cronenberg’s more complicated and divisive works, which is really saying something. — Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 7 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1642, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for divisive

• decisive
• incisive
• indecisive