as in to divide
to cause (people) to break up into opposing groups
A hot button issue that is sure to polarize the public.
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of polarize
Because in this historical moment, where ideas and feelings about immigration are so polarized, right?
—
Brayden Garcia,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
19 June 2026
Like so much else in America, the experience of fatherhood is polarized.
—
Joshua Rothman,
New Yorker,
19 June 2026
There was nothing remotely polarizing in a gig that everything to do with classic virtues.
—
Chris Willman,
Variety,
19 June 2026
Dolan is a controversial and polarizing owner, having been involved in lawsuits and public feuds with journalists, New York City officials, celebrities and fans.
—
Holly Yan,
CNN Money,
18 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for polarize
Brayden Garcia,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
19 June 2026
Like so much else in America, the experience of fatherhood is polarized.
—
Joshua Rothman,
New Yorker,
19 June 2026
There was nothing remotely polarizing in a gig that everything to do with classic virtues.
—
Chris Willman,
Variety,
19 June 2026
Dolan is a controversial and polarizing owner, having been involved in lawsuits and public feuds with journalists, New York City officials, celebrities and fans.
—
Holly Yan,
CNN Money,
18 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for polarize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for polarize
Verb
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Looking along party lines, Republicans are closely divided on AI, as 38% expect a positive impact on the economy and 40% expecting a negative impact.
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Tens of thousands of North Koreans have fled to South Korea since the peninsula was divided by war in the 1950s.
Verb
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While facing some of the premier beach volleyball players in the nation, the duo has split their last four matches.
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The last jackpot win came May 2, when two tickets split $20 million, a relatively small prize that reset the game’s steady climb.
Cite this Entry
“Polarize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/polarize. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.
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