Polar Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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polar

[ˈpəʊlə ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

climate

Relating to the North or South Pole or the regions around them.

Synonyms

Antarctic, Arctic, northern, southern.

Examples of usage

  • The polar bear is well adapted to the cold climate of the Arctic.
  • Scientists study the polar ice caps to understand climate change better.
Context #2 | Noun

opposite

A person or thing directly opposite to someone or something else.

Synonyms

antithesis, contrary, opposite.

Examples of usage

  • In this debate, he represents the polar opposite of what I stand for.
  • Their personalities are like polar opposites.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Geography

  • The polar regions are characterized by extreme cold temperatures and ice-covered land.
  • The Arctic is the area around the North Pole, while the Antarctic surrounds the South Pole, with each having unique ecosystems.
  • Polar ice caps are crucial for regulating Earth's climate by reflecting sunlight back into space.

Wildlife

  • Polar bears are considered marine mammals, as they spend much of their time on sea ice hunting seals.
  • Many fish species and birds migrate to polar regions during the summer months to take advantage of abundant food.
  • The unique adaptations of animals in polar environments include thick fur, blubber, and the ability to navigate in extreme cold.

Climate Change

  • Polar regions are warming at twice the global average due to climate change, leading to melting ice and habitat loss.
  • The melting ice is causing sea levels to rise, threatening coastal cities around the world.
  • Changes in polar climates affect global weather patterns, as they play a key role in Earth's temperature regulation.

Culture

  • Polar exploration has captivated human imagination, leading to famous expeditions like those of Ernest Shackleton and Robert Peary.
  • The idea of 'polar' is often romanticized in literature and film, portraying adventures in harsh, beautiful landscapes.
  • Various cultures have myths and folklore connected to polar regions, such as the Inuit legends of the Northern Lights.

Science

  • Scientists study polar climates to understand past climate changes through the analysis of ice cores.
  • Polar research helps inform predictions on how climate change will affect global weather in the future.
  • Unique geological features like glaciers and fjords can only be found in polar areas, providing insights into Earth's history.

Origin of 'polar'

The word 'polar' originates from the late 16th century, from the Latin word 'polaris', meaning 'of or relating to the pole'. It was first used in English to describe the regions around the North and South Poles. Over time, it has been extended to various contexts, including opposites or extremes.


See also: nonpolar, polarisation, polarization, polarizing, unpolar.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,310 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.