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
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
Chris BallardOur media's attention often spins around unnuanced, polarizing opinions and hasty, inflammatory statements.—Heather Lanier
Heather LanierExamples of polarizing in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
America is on a different path, navigating a political landscape that, while still marked by profound disagreements, is undeniably altered by the absence of one of its most polarizing and influential figures.
—Theo Burman, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 July 2025
However, the idea remains controversial, fueling one of the most polarizing debates in medicine and society at large.
—Francesco Rubino, Time, 9 July 2025
Like so many polarizing issues facing our country, the battle over diversity offers little room for thoughtful discussion or serious debate on the best ways forward.
—Michael Posner, Forbes.com, 3 July 2025
Since his foray into Washington, Musk has become a deeply polarizing and unpopular figure, while the president's approval rating has ticked up in some recent surveys.
—Benjamin Siegel, ABC News, 7 June 2025
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Theo Burman, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 July 2025
However, the idea remains controversial, fueling one of the most polarizing debates in medicine and society at large.
—Francesco Rubino, Time, 9 July 2025
Like so many polarizing issues facing our country, the battle over diversity offers little room for thoughtful discussion or serious debate on the best ways forward.
—Michael Posner, Forbes.com, 3 July 2025
Since his foray into Washington, Musk has become a deeply polarizing and unpopular figure, while the president's approval rating has ticked up in some recent surveys.
—Benjamin Siegel, ABC News, 7 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for polarizing
Cite this Entry
“Polarizing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polarizing. Accessed 20 Jul. 2025.
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