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
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
Chris BallardOur media's attention often spins around unnuanced, polarizing opinions and hasty, inflammatory statements.—Heather Lanier
Heather LanierExamples of polarizing in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Matthew Golden Due to his inconsistent production in college, Matthew Golden has been one of the most polarizing prospects.
—Steve Bradshaw, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2025
Even if he is now seen as a more polarizing figure, the former businessman and longtime conservative stalwart seems once again to be cruising toward the chancellorship.
—Jim Tankersley, New York Times, 11 Feb. 2025
And in recent years, one of the most polarizing topics among teachers and students everywhere is the use of music in yoga.
—Adam Husler, Outside Online, 29 Jan. 2025
The technology is well established, but the regulatory and cultural discussion surrounding genetic modification is the most polarizing topic in food.
—Ali Bouzari, Bon Appétit, 13 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for polarizing
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Steve Bradshaw, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2025
Even if he is now seen as a more polarizing figure, the former businessman and longtime conservative stalwart seems once again to be cruising toward the chancellorship.
—Jim Tankersley, New York Times, 11 Feb. 2025
And in recent years, one of the most polarizing topics among teachers and students everywhere is the use of music in yoga.
—Adam Husler, Outside Online, 29 Jan. 2025
The technology is well established, but the regulatory and cultural discussion surrounding genetic modification is the most polarizing topic in food.
—Ali Bouzari, Bon Appétit, 13 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for polarizing
Cite this Entry
“Polarizing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polarizing. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share