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polarize

Syllabification: (po·lar·ize)
Pronunciation: /ˈpōləˌrīz/
Translate polarize | into Italian | into Spanish
Definition of polarize

verb

  • 1 [with object] Physics restrict the vibrations of (a transverse wave, especially light) wholly or partially to one direction: (as adjective polarizing)a polarizing microscope
  • 2 [with object] Physics cause (something) to acquire polarity:the electrode is polarized in aqueous solution
  • 3divide or cause to divide into two sharply contrasting groups or sets of opinions or beliefs: [no object]:the cultural sphere has polarized into two competing ideological positions [with object]:Vietnam polarized political opinion

Derivatives

polarizability

noun

polarizable

adjective

polarization

noun

polarizer

noun

polarize in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of polarize in the British & World English dictionary
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