Synonyms of polarize

polarize

verb

ˈpō-lə-ˌrīz 

as in to divide

to cause (people) to break up into opposing groups

A hot button issue that is sure to polarize the public.

Synonyms & Similar Words

• divide
• split
• splinter
• separate
• alienate
• fragment
• antagonize
• estrange
• fracture
• embitter
• disaffect
• disgruntle

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• unite
• unify
• reconcile
• coalesce
• harmonize
• concentrate
• consolidate
• conciliate

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of polarize

During his time in Los Angeles, James became one of the country's most polarizing athletes, primarily due to his polarizing political rhetoric. — Bobby Burack Outkick, FOXNews.com, 6 July 2026

Populist Abelardo de la Espriella narrowly won a polarizing presidential runoff in Colombia Sunday. — CBS News, 24 June 2026

Critics say Yoon’s campaign further polarized the country by injecting falsehoods into already bitter political disputes and making compromise increasingly difficult. — ABC News, 7 July 2026

Right-of-center justices formed coalitions Roman Martinez, a partner at Latham & Watkins who has argued 16 cases before the justices, said there’s no question the court is highly polarized, especially on the far right and left sides. — Maureen Groppe, USA Today, 3 July 2026