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hot-button

American

[hot-buht-n] / ˈhɒtˈbʌt n /

adjective

exciting strong feelings; highly charged; emotional.

hot-button issues.

hot button British

noun

informal
1. a controversial subject or issue that is likely to arouse strong emotions
2. ( as modifier )
  
  the hot-button issue of abortion

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of hot-button

First recorded in 1985–90

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

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

Political discord and polarization in the U.S. means most brands will continue to avoid hot-button topics.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 6, 2026

Artificial-intelligence spending remains a hot-button issue on Wall Street.

From Barron's • Dec. 1, 2025

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

The women who host ABC’s “The View,” which is known for not shying away from hot-button topics, had been silent on the issue last week, but addressed Kimmel’s suspension Monday.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 22, 2025

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023