polarizing

especially British, po·lar·is·ing

[poh-luh-rahy-zing]

adjective

1. tending to divide people into sharply opposing factions.

   Here are some tips to keep polarizing political discourse from disrupting your workplace.

2. causing polarization of light or similar radiation.

   If there is glare, you can use a polarizing filter on the camera to reduce or even remove it.

3. causing magnetic or electric polarity in a body or system.

   The control system consists of a feedback loop that uses real-time polarizing electric fields as a controlling force.

noun

1. the act, fact, or practice of dividing people into sharply opposing factions.

   If rational argument fails, he can always fall back on the techniques of mockery and polarizing.

Other Word Forms

• nonpolarizing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of polarizing¹

First recorded in 1720–30; polariz(e) ( def. ) + -ing ² ( def. ) for the adjective senses; polariz(e) ( def. ) + -ing ¹ ( def. ) for the noun sense

Example Sentences

“This issue is one of the most polarizing issues nationally and it has split the Church,” he said, adding that it’s fair to question the way the statement is written.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Since the deal closed Aug. 7, David Ellison has moved to position the company slightly right of the political center, while also taking on polarizing issues.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

A polarizing figure on the Los Angeles Police Commission will retain his seat despite having never received an approval vote from the City Council.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

AI is polarizing, it can spread misinformation and there are many signs that it’s coming for our jobs.

Read more on Salon

Indeed, over the last few decades, research shows that the U.S. has been polarizing faster than other democracies, affecting people’s everyday lives.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• part 
• separate