as in to divide
to cause (people) to break up into opposing groups
A hot button issue that is sure to polarize the public.
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of polarize
Populist Abelardo de la Espriella narrowly won a polarizing presidential runoff in Colombia Sunday.
—
CBS News,
24 June 2026
Keiko Fujimori’s political identity remains inseparable from the legacy of her father, one of the most consequential and polarizing leaders in modern Peruvian history.
—
Antonio María Delgado,
Miami Herald,
24 June 2026
Because in this historical moment, where ideas and feelings about immigration are so polarized, right?
—
Brayden Garcia,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
19 June 2026
Like so much else in America, the experience of fatherhood is polarized.
—
Joshua Rothman,
New Yorker,
19 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for polarize
CBS News,
24 June 2026
Keiko Fujimori’s political identity remains inseparable from the legacy of her father, one of the most consequential and polarizing leaders in modern Peruvian history.
—
Antonio María Delgado,
Miami Herald,
24 June 2026
Because in this historical moment, where ideas and feelings about immigration are so polarized, right?
—
Brayden Garcia,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
19 June 2026
Like so much else in America, the experience of fatherhood is polarized.
—
Joshua Rothman,
New Yorker,
19 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for polarize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for polarize
Verb
-
The revelation has divided Jefferson descendants for decades.
-
The sale sees the property divided into three lots with two buildable, giving the opportunity to create a treasurable family compound in rural seclusion just a 30-minute drive from the island’s main towns.
Verb
-
The result is uncommon room layouts like the tri-suite king room equipped with two twin-sized beds and a king bed split by a privacy divider that doubles as a playful art installation.
-
Cutright, who was not charged with murder, split from Devastating Pyrotechnics to form Blackstar Fireworks on the property in 2023.
Cite this Entry
“Polarize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/polarize. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
