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

The lunation doubles as a lunar eclipse in Pisces, the twelfth and last zodiac sign on the wheel and the polarity of Virgo. —Skyler Caruso, Peoplemag, 13 Sep. 2024

Giving examples of polarities that could be reconciled, Richter has pointed to the electronic and acoustic. —David Harris, SPIN, 11 Sep. 2024

But polarity centers on a different meaning of power, one that is measurable: power as resources, especially military might and economic heft. —Stephen G. Brooks, Foreign Affairs, 18 Apr. 2023

And so, probably, the polarity of our conversations about A.I. should be reversed. —Joshua Rothman, The New Yorker, 6 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing polarity

• polarity therapy

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