polarity

noun

po·​lar·​i·​ty pō-ˈler-ə-tē 

pə-,

-ˈla-rə-

plural polarities

1

: the quality or condition inherent in a body that exhibits opposite properties or powers in opposite parts or directions or that exhibits contrasted properties or powers in contrasted parts or directions : the condition of having poles

2

: attraction toward a particular object or in a specific direction

3

: the particular state either positive or negative with reference to the two poles or to electrification

4

a

: diametrical opposition

b

: an instance of such opposition

Synonyms

• contrariety
• contrariness
• oppositeness
• opposition

Examples of polarity in a Sentence

the polarity of the candidates' views on the issue means that the voters have a clear choice to make

Recent Examples on the Web

Given these cumulative factors—the anticipation of instability, polarities in the workplace, and a series of lagging effects that could slow spending and by extension weaken the economy—what should CEOs and boards do? —David Reimer, Forbes, 30 Oct. 2024

And in many ways, Taliesin is where these two polarities mingle. —Katherine McLaughlin, Architectural Digest, 30 Sep. 2024

Design, as always, polarizing Always lurking in the background of the love/hate polarity is the Cybertruck design. —Brooke Crothers, Forbes, 24 Nov. 2024

And those polarities always make the most fertile soil as an actor. —Carita Rizzo, Deadline, 14 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing polarity

• polarity therapy

Kids Definition

polarity

noun

po·​lar·​i·​ty pō-ˈlar-ət-ē 

pə-

plural polarities

1

: the condition of having poles and especially magnetic or electrical poles

2

: attraction toward a particular object or in a specific direction

Medical Definition

polarity

noun

po·​lar·​i·​ty pō-ˈlar-ət-ē, pə- 

plural polarities

1

: the quality or condition inherent in a body that exhibits contrasting properties or powers in contrasting parts or directions

2

: attraction toward a particular object or in a specific direction

3

: the particular state either positive or negative with reference to the two poles or to electrification