Main Entry: po·lar·i·za·tion

Pronunciation: \ˌpō-lə-rə-ˈzā-shən\

Function: noun

Date: 1812

1 : 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 often caused by the deposition of gas on one or both electrodes c : magnetization
2 a : division into two opposites b : concentration about opposing extremes of groups or interests formerly ranged on a continuum