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

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

Our media's attention often spins around unnuanced, polarizing opinions and hasty, inflammatory statements.

—Heather Lanier

Examples of polarizing in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Plain mayonnaise is one of the most polarizing condiments on the aisle. —Jolene Thym, Mercury News, 9 May 2025

Gloria Gaynor is setting the record straight about her stance on an important but polarizing subject: feminism. —Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 5 May 2025

Undoubtedly one of the most polarizing trends in fashion history, figuring out what to wear with leggings has been a key part of the millennial existence. —Kelsey Stiegman, Glamour, 2 May 2025

The survey found Musk to be a highly polarizing figure. —Steve Liesman, CNBC, 22 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1803, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for polarizing

• advertising
• amortizing
• analyzing
• anodizing
• appetizing
• atomizing
• authorising
• authorizing
• carbonizing
• carburizing
• catalyzing
• centralising