noun

polarization

poh-luh-ruh-ZAY-shun

Polarization (noun) means the process by which a group, especially a country's electorate, splits into two opposed camps with fewer and fewer people holding middle-ground views. Example: “Polarization has made it harder to pass any bill with cross-party support.”

noun

The process by which a group, especially a country's electorate, splits into two opposed camps with fewer and fewer people holding middle-ground views.

"Polarization has made it harder to pass any bill with cross-party support."

"Talk radio is often blamed for the polarization of public debate."

In physics, the restriction of the vibrations of a light or other transverse wave to a single plane or direction.

"Sunglasses reduce glare by filtering out light of one polarization."

In chemistry and electricity, the development of separated positive and negative charge across a molecule, cell or dielectric.

"Polarization at the electrode slowly reduced the cell's output."

How to Use Polarization

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishWhen people, or things, split into two opposite sides.

When to use it

Neutral; the political sense is the one now dominant in news writing. British English usually spells it polarisation.

Memory tip

American texts write polarization with a z; British texts usually use polarisation, and both are correct in their own variety.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

polarisation radicalisation division →

Common pairings

political polarization growing polarization affective polarization polarization of the electorate circular polarization

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

_____ has made it harder to pass any bill with cross-party support.

Etymology

From polar, via Latin polaris, from Greek polos 'axis, pole'. The verb polarize adds the verb-forming suffix -ize, and -ation then turns that verb into a noun.

Origin: Latin and Greek

Synonyms

View more →

division split factionalism entrenchment plane polarisation

Antonyms

consensus unity moderation

Related Words

one part class leave break section county agreement

Rhymes for polarization

region billion ablation allusion emulsion ideation novation abortion abrasion diffusion elocution extension

See all rhymes for polarization →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between polarization and radicalisation?

Polarization describes a whole population pulling apart into two opposed blocs, with the centre emptying out. Radicalisation describes individuals moving towards extreme positions, often including support for violence. A society can polarise without anyone becoming radical.

What is affective polarization?

Affective polarization is dislike and distrust of the other side as people, rather than disagreement about policy. Researchers measure it by asking how comfortable someone would be with a neighbour, colleague or in-law from the opposing party.

How does polarization work in sunglasses?

Light bouncing off roads and water vibrates mostly in one horizontal plane. A polarising filter passes only vertically vibrating light, so most of that reflected glare is blocked while the rest of the scene comes through.

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