divisive

[dih-vahy-siv, -vis-iv]

adjective

1. forming or expressing division or distribution.

2. creating dissension or discord.

divisive

/ dɪˈvaɪsɪv /

adjective

1. causing or tending to cause disagreement or dissension

2. archaic,  having the quality of distinguishing

Other Word Forms

• divisively adverb
• divisiveness noun
• nondivisive adjective
• nondivisively adverb
• semidivisive adjective
• semidivisively adverb
• undivisive adjective
• undivisively adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of divisive¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; from Late Latin dīvīsīvus, equivalent to Latin dīvīs(us) ( divisible ) + -īvus adjective suffix ( -ive )

Example Sentences

Political reactions in Northern Ireland are predictably divisive.

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The case is deeply divisive in Northern Ireland, where the decades of sectarian violence that began in the 1960s still cast a long shadow.

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The prime minister has tried to blame the opposition for the attack and for whipping up hatred, though he is known for deeply divisive rhetoric himself.

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The optimism looks to be becoming widespread across Wall Street after a period where Apple was a divisive stock.

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The celebration arrives at a divisive time in American history.

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Related Words

• disruptive