a controversial subject or issue that is likely to arouse strong emotions (as modifier): the hot-button issue of global warming
Collins Concise English Dictionary © HarperCollins Publishers::
ˈhot-ˈbut•ton, adj.
WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2025- arousing strong feelings;
very emotional:abortion and other hot-button issues.
hot-but•ton
(hot′but′n),USA pronunciation adj.
- exciting strong feelings;
highly charged;
emotional: hot-button issues.
- 1985–90
'hot button' also found in these entries (note: many are not synonyms or translations):