Langimage
English

polarised

|po-la-rised|

C1

🇺🇸

/ˈpoʊ.ləˌraɪzd/

🇬🇧

/ˈpəʊ.ləˌraɪzd/

(polarise)

make into poles; split into opposites

Base Form3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleAdjective
polarisepolarisespolarisedpolarisedpolarisingpolarised
Etymology
Etymology Information

'polarise' originates from French, specifically the word 'polariser', ultimately from New Latin 'polaris', where 'polaris' meant 'of a pole'.

Historical Evolution

'polarise' entered English in the mid 19th century from French 'polariser', which in turn was formed from New Latin 'polaris' derived from Latin 'polus' (pole).

Meaning Changes

Initially it meant 'to give or relate to poles', and over time it evolved to mean 'to cause polarization' in physics and metaphorically 'to divide into opposite groups'.

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Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

past tense or past participle form of 'polarise'.

The debate was polarised by a few extreme statements.

Synonyms

Adjective 1

divided into two sharply contrasting groups, positions, or opinions; showing strong disagreement or opposite extremes.

The electorate has become increasingly polarised on the issue.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 2

applied to waves, light, or particles that have been given a particular orientation or polarity; exhibiting polarization in a physical sense.

The sunglasses reduce glare by blocking polarised light.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2026/01/21 22:45

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