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Noun: polarization  ,pow-lu-ru'zey-shun [N. Amer], ,pow-lu-rI'zey-shun [Brit]
  1. The grouping of people into two distinct sets, or opinions into two extremes
    "The debate highlighted the growing polarization in public opinion on the issue";
    - polarisation [Brit]
     
  2. The phenomenon in which waves of light or other radiation are restricted in direction of vibration
    "Polarization is used in sunglasses to reduce glare";
    - polarisation [Brit]
     
  3. The condition of having or giving polarity
    "The polarization of light by certain crystals is used in sunglasses";
    - polarisation [Brit]

Derived forms: polarizations

Type of: condition, optical phenomenon, status

Encyclopedia: Polarization