polarized

past tense of polarize
as in divided
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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of polarized Lens options include polarized, clear and Transitions. David Phelan, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026 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 When feelings about the other side are this negatively polarized, then winning – even with a less-than-ideal candidate as your standard-bearer – becomes more crucial than ever. Charlie Hunt, The Conversation, 18 June 2026 In an era when divisive politics and social media have emboldened people to voice their thoughts in a vacuum, campuses — once hallmarks for the exchange of ideas and opinions — are becoming increasingly polarized in the eyes of some Americans. Kate Perez, Chicago Tribune, 16 June 2026 Americans become even more cynical and polarized. Los Angeles Times, 15 June 2026 To watch something that was so wonderful become so polarized, that’s hard. Brianna Zigler, Entertainment Weekly, 8 June 2026 Leo is seemingly keen to bring his message of peace, unity and human dignity to a continent sorely polarized over migration, the Russia-Ukraine war and anxiety over artificial intelligence. CBS News, 6 June 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for polarized
divided
Verb
  • Nigeria is largely divided between Christians in the south and Muslims in the north.
    Dyepkazah Shibayan, Los Angeles Times, 27 June 2026
  • The technology’s build-out, included planned pipelines, has sparked backlash in rural Louisiana communities and divided the state GOP.
    ABC News, ABC News, 27 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Polarized.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/polarized. Accessed 29 Jun. 2026.

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