polarization

noun

po·​lar·​i·​za·​tion ˌpō-lə-rə-ˈzā-shən 

plural polarizations

1

: the action of polarizing or state of being or becoming polarized: such as

a(1)

: the action or process of affecting radiation and especially light so that the vibrations of the wave assume a definite form

(2)

: the state of radiation affected by this process

b

: an increase in the resistance of an electrolytic cell often caused by the deposition of gas on one or both electrodes

c

: magnetization

2

: division into two sharply distinct opposites

especially : a state in which the opinions, beliefs, or interests of a group or society no longer range along a continuum but become concentrated at opposing extremes

political polarization

… the relationship between partisan polarization and legislative gridlock is direct, with stalemate more frequent as the political center shrinks.

—Sarah A. Binder

The drift in our society now is not toward a grouping around the middle, but toward polarization.

—Richard Todd

… the venue where our most fractious … arguments over identity occur: the internet. These arguments do not play out on a democratized playing field where all identities are weighted equally; rather, they play out in a meticulously crafted environment where identities are microtargeted and polarization is amplified by algorithms.

—Emma Levy

Examples of polarization in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The process is fascinating, from recrystallization to the use of polarization filters to enhance and bring out certain shapes and colors. —Mark Littler, Forbes, 20 Nov. 2024

Endorsements have fallen off significantly in the past two election cycles as papers grapple with growing polarization and fears of political retribution. —Noah Bressner, Axios, 5 Nov. 2024

During the 1920s, the crushing weight of reparations along with polarization led to economic and political instability. —Christine Adams / Made By History, TIME, 5 Nov. 2024

Despite the country’s political polarization, many people in these tailgate groups weren’t even sure who their football friends were supporting. —Noah Bierman, Los Angeles Times, 4 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1812, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing polarization

• plane of polarization

Medical Definition

polarization

noun

po·​lar·​iza·​tion

variants also British polarisation

ˌpō-lə-rə-ˈzā-shən 

: the action of polarizing or state of being or becoming polarized: as

a(1)

: the action or process of affecting radiation and especially light so that the vibrations of the wave assume a definite form

(2)

: the state of radiation affected by this process

b

: an increase in the resistance of an electrolytic cell caused by the deposition of gas on one or both electrodes

c

: magnetization