ˈpōləˌrīz verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: French polariser, from New Latin polaris polar + French -iser -ize
transitive verb
1. : to cause (as light waves) to vibrate in a definite pattern : affect by polarization
2. : to give polarity to : bring into a state of physical polarization
3. : to direct or orient toward a specific polar point (as an object or principle)
the whole society was polarized toward financial success — W.P.Webb
when a young person … has his interest polarized and his life altered — John Mason Brown
4. : to produce or bring about a polarization of : subject to or cause to exhibit polarization
the campaign … tends to polarize people — R.M.Goldman
a conflict … which polarizes political life — L.S.Feuer
this tactic … polarized the political elements into Right and Left camps — Current History
5. : to serve as a focal point for the concentration of
a bell tower which … polarizes a deep local pride — K.R.Greenfield
groups … have polarized what is most reactionary in our economic and social system — New Republic
intransitive verb
1.
a. : to gather or become concentrated about opposing extremes
political forces had polarized into right and left extremes — Andrew Roth
b. : to serve as a focal point about which such concentration may take place
2. : to adhere to or become directed toward a specific polar object or principle
some individuals polarize negatively by turning into cynical sensualists — P.A.Sorokin