hot-button

American  

[hot-buht-n] / ˈhɒtˈbʌt n /

adjective

1. exciting strong feelings; highly charged; emotional.

   hot-button issues.

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hot button British  

noun

1. informal

   1. a controversial subject or issue that is likely to arouse strong emotions

   2. ( as modifier )

      the hot-button issue of abortion

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Etymology

Origin of hot-button

First recorded in 1985–90

Example Sentences

On the hot-button topic of the impact of artificial intelligence, he’s worried about it when combined with some troubling market mechanics.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 18, 2026

That middle-of-the-road phrasing is a result of the rising perils of wading into hot-button issues in recent years.

From Barron's • Jan. 26, 2026

Naturally, the couple segues into another disagreement, arguing about where to spend their upcoming vacation — a hot-button issue, since Joan’s cancer treatments are no longer working and time is suddenly precious.

From Salon • Nov. 27, 2025

But the purchases became a hot-button issue in recent weeks.

From The Wall Street Journal • Aug. 29, 2025

The banner, which uses the neo-fascist group‘s signature colors, also references the hot-button American Eagle ad. “She has the best blue genes,” the banner says.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 8, 2025