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 divisive race has left Americans exhausted and on edge, Sonoma State Political Science Professor David McCuan said. Julia Prodis Sulek, The Mercury News, 6 Nov. 2024 This is another funny one, but the feud between student and teacher feels awfully relevant in today’s divisive political climate. Erik Kain, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024 Former President Donald Trump and his vice presidential pick, Sen. JD Vance, spent the closing hours of the 2024 campaign reviving rhetoric criticized by opponents as divisive. David Brennan, ABC News, 5 Nov. 2024 Acknowledge emotions Recognize that anxiety and intense emotions are normal when dealing with divisive, hot-button issues, Coleman said via email. Andrea Kane, CNN, 5 Nov. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near divisive

Cite this Entry

“Divisive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/divisive. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

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