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

c

: causing strong disagreement between opposing factions or groupings

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

Our media's attention often spins around unnuanced, polarizing opinions and hasty, inflammatory statements.

—Heather Lanier

Examples of polarizing in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

And Answers For Friday, October 11th New Gmail Security Alert For Billions As 7-Day AI Hack Confirmed The Packers eventually traded Rodgers to the Jets in April, 2023, ending one of the most polarizing careers in franchise history. —Rob Reischel, Forbes, 11 Oct. 2024

But in a surprising and polarizing choice, Phillips turned the sequel into a musical, complete with frequent covers of largely pre-existing songs. —Brendan Morrow, USA TODAY, 6 Oct. 2024

Never forgiving toward its subjects, the origin story is a fascinating character study of one of the most polarizing figures of our time and the man who made him. —Ew Staff, EW.com, 4 Oct. 2024

Still, climate change remains a deeply polarizing issue within Congress and on the campaign trail. —Grace Manthey, CBS News, 25 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1803, in the meaning defined above