polarity

noun

po·​lar·​i·​ty pō-ˈler-ə-tē 

pə-,

-ˈla-rə-

plural polarities

1

: the quality or condition inherent in a body that exhibits opposite properties or powers in opposite parts or directions or that exhibits contrasted properties or powers in contrasted parts or directions : the condition of having poles

2

: attraction toward a particular object or in a specific direction

3

: the particular state either positive or negative with reference to the two poles or to electrification

4

a

: diametrical opposition

b

: an instance of such opposition

Synonyms

• contrariety
• contrariness
• oppositeness
• opposition

Examples of polarity in a Sentence

the polarity of the candidates' views on the issue means that the voters have a clear choice to make

Recent Examples on the Web

Here's how… Reverse the polarity of the spoiler flow! —Richard Edwards, Space.com, 26 Apr. 2025

Rather than viewing these as problems to solve, effective leaders embrace them as polarities to be managed dynamically. —Mark Greeven, Forbes.com, 22 Apr. 2025

The polarity between Gilmore Girls and Étoile was even more stark behind the scenes. —Michael Ausiello, TVLine, 20 Apr. 2025

There is perhaps no fashion trend that can provoke such instant polarity than the skinny jean. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 24 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing polarity

• polarity therapy

Rhymes for polarity

• alterity
• asperity
• austerity
• celerity
• dexterity
• disparity
• hilarity
• molarity
• planarity
• posterity
• prosperity
• severity

Kids Definition

polarity

noun

po·​lar·​i·​ty pō-ˈlar-ət-ē 

pə-

plural polarities

1

: the condition of having poles and especially magnetic or electrical poles

2

: attraction toward a particular object or in a specific direction

Medical Definition

polarity

noun

po·​lar·​i·​ty pō-ˈlar-ət-ē, pə- 

plural polarities

1

: the quality or condition inherent in a body that exhibits contrasting properties or powers in contrasting parts or directions

2

: attraction toward a particular object or in a specific direction

3

: the particular state either positive or negative with reference to the two poles or to electrification