n.
Pronunciation: ˌ p ō -l ə -r ə - ' z ā -sh ə n
Function: noun
Date: 1812
1 : the action of polarizing or state of being or becoming polarized: as a (1) : the action or process of affecting radiation and especially light so that the vibrations of the wave assume a definite form (2) : the state of radiation affected by this process b : an increase in the resistance of an electrolytic cell often caused by the deposition of gas on one or both electrodes c : MAGNETIZATION
2 a : division into two opposites b : concentration about opposing extremes of groups or interests formerly ranged on a continuum