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Polarized: meaning, definitions and examples

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polarized

 

[ ˈpɒlərˌaɪzd ]

Adjective / Verb
Context #1 | Adjective

scientific context

Polarized refers to light waves that vibrate in a single plane, as opposed to vibrating in multiple planes. This phenomenon is often observed in optics and is utilized in various technologies such as polarized sunglasses, which reduce glare from surfaces like water or roads. Polarization can also occur in other contexts, such as in discussions where opinions become sharply divided.

Synonyms

biased, divided, separated.

Examples of usage

  • Polarized sunglasses can enhance visibility on sunny days.
  • The study focused on polarized light waves and their applications.
  • He noted how polarized opinions can hinder productive discussion.
Context #2 | Verb

social context

To polarize means to divide or cause to divide into two sharply contrasting groups or sets of opinions or beliefs. This can happen in social or political contexts where differing viewpoints lead to a lack of agreement. Polarization can also refer to the process of becoming polarized regarding one's stance on an issue.

Synonyms

divide, separate, split.

Examples of usage

  • The debate polarized the community into opposing factions.
  • The recent policy changes have polarized public opinion.
  • Media coverage tends to polarize issues more than inform them.

Translations

Translations of the word "polarized" in other languages:

🇵🇹 polarizado

🇮🇳 ध्रुवीकृत

🇩🇪 polarisiert

🇮🇩 terpolarisasi

🇺🇦 поляризований

🇵🇱 polaryzowany

🇯🇵 偏光された

🇫🇷 polarisé

🇪🇸 polarizado

🇹🇷 polarize

🇰🇷 편광된

🇸🇦 مستقطب

🇨🇿 polarizovaný

🇸🇰 polarizovaný

🇨🇳 极化的

🇸🇮 polariziran

🇮🇸 skautað

🇰🇿 полярланған

🇬🇪 პოლარიზებული

🇦🇿 polarlaşdırılmış

🇲🇽 polarizado

Etymology

The term 'polarized' originates from the word 'polarize', which is derived from the combination of the word 'polar', meaning relating to the poles or having two distinct poles, and the suffix '-ize', which indicates a process of becoming or causing to become. The concept of polarization emerged in scientific discussions of light and electromagnetic waves in the late 19th century, particularly in the field of optics. The process of polarization in light serves as a crucial concept in many areas of physics. Over time, the usage of 'polarize' has expanded into social sciences, where it describes the division of groups or opinions, reflecting a broader understanding of the term beyond its original scientific context.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,254, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.