polarizing

adjective

po·​lar·​iz·​ing ˈpō-lə-ˌrī-ziŋ 

: causing polarization: such as

a

: causing electromagnetic radiation and especially light waves to vibrate in a definite pattern

a camera lens equipped with a polarizing filter [= a filter that controls the passage of polarized light in order to reduce reflections, glare, etc.]

sunglasses with polarizing lenses

b

: causing a physical object (such as a particle or crystal) to enter a state of polarization

… applying a polarizing electric field to ferroelectric crystals …

—David Ritchie

c

: causing strong disagreement between opposing factions or groupings

a polarizing political issue

As polarizing a figure as there is in the league, he is deified in L.A. and often detested elsewhere, yet not even his detractors can deny his talent or accomplishments.

—Chris Ballard

Our media's attention often spins around unnuanced, polarizing opinions and hasty, inflammatory statements.

—Heather Lanier

Examples of polarizing in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Zach Edey, center, Purdue: One of the most polarizing prospects in this year’s draft class. —Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 25 June 2024

Capote was a notoriously difficult and polarizing but also fascinating figure. —Gary Goldstein, Los Angeles Times, 14 June 2024

And in a highly polarizing election year, getting outside your comfort zone can make a real difference. —Christopher Elliott, USA TODAY, 7 June 2024

Rodgers is one of the NFL’s most polarizing figures. —Bob Raissman, New York Daily News, 6 Jan. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1803, in the meaning defined above