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 groups
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
He’s challenged by Paxton, Texas attorney general since 2015, and one of the most polarizing figures in state politics.
—Dante Motley, Austin American Statesman, 3 Mar. 2026
The most polarizing prospect at the NFL Scouting Combine spent the last four months as college’s football biggest game-wrecker.
—Sam McDowell February 27, Kansas City Star, 27 Feb. 2026
Mark Walker, Boca Raton A highly polarizing figure The naming of public buildings after individuals is a significant gesture that typically reflects a consensus on their positive impact, legacy and public service.
—Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 24 Feb. 2026
Inside the administration, White House aides have been orchestrating an extraordinary shakeup of Trump’s health department in an attempt to answer broad concerns about the way the department talks about health and to move its focus away from more polarizing topics like vaccines.
—Meg Tirrell, CNN Money, 19 Feb. 2026
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Dante Motley, Austin American Statesman, 3 Mar. 2026
The most polarizing prospect at the NFL Scouting Combine spent the last four months as college’s football biggest game-wrecker.
—Sam McDowell February 27, Kansas City Star, 27 Feb. 2026
Mark Walker, Boca Raton A highly polarizing figure The naming of public buildings after individuals is a significant gesture that typically reflects a consensus on their positive impact, legacy and public service.
—Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 24 Feb. 2026
Inside the administration, White House aides have been orchestrating an extraordinary shakeup of Trump’s health department in an attempt to answer broad concerns about the way the department talks about health and to move its focus away from more polarizing topics like vaccines.
—Meg Tirrell, CNN Money, 19 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for polarizing
Cite this Entry
“Polarizing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polarizing. Accessed 27 Mar. 2026.
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