polarized

American  

[poh-luh-rahyzd] / ˈpoʊ ləˌraɪzd /

adjective

1. of or relating to a medium that exhibits polarization.

2. (of an electric plug or outlet) designed so that the plug and outlet fit together in only one way.

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Other Word Forms

• nonpolarized adjective
• unpolarized adjective

Etymology

Origin of polarized

First recorded in 1920–25; polarize + -ed ²

Example Sentences

There’s a similar problem with respect to statistics on racially polarized voting, and those numbers also change every election.

From The Wall Street Journal

In our increasingly polarized society, Kasselman said she’s excited to facilitate an experience in which people can have positive interactions with strangers from different backgrounds.

From Los Angeles Times

But they polarized fans, and some were beset by creative problems behind the scenes.

From The Wall Street Journal

By studying polarized light at different wavelengths, the researchers were able to determine the grains' size and composition.

From Science Daily

During his 14 years as senator, Rubio was generally well-liked by his colleagues, who unanimously confirmed him as secretary of state -- a rarity in such polarized times.

From Barron's

Related Words

• contradictory