The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

polarity

IPA:

Dictionary definition of polarity

The condition or state of having two opposite or contrasting attributes, forces, or aspects.
"The polarity of the situation was clear, with two opposing factions vying for control."

Detailed meaning of polarity

It is often used to describe the physical or electrical properties of objects, such as the positive or negative charge of a magnet or the direction of an electrical current. In a broader sense, polarity can also refer to the fundamental nature of opposing forces and concepts in the universe, such as light and darkness, good and evil, or yin and yang. The concept of polarity is important in various fields, including chemistry, physics, and psychology, where it is used to describe the differences between different elements, particles, or psychological states. In psychology, for example, polarity can refer to the opposite emotions, attitudes, or behaviors that individuals may experience, such as love and hate, joy and sadness, or extraversion and introversion.

Example sentences containing polarity

1. The polarity of her emotions shifted from joy to sorrow.
2. Magnetic polarity determines how magnets attract or repel.
3. In politics, there's often a stark polarity of opinions.
4. The polarity of the battery affects its performance.
5. Gender roles have evolved, reducing societal polarity.
6. The polarity of the debate became increasingly evident.

History and etymology of polarity

The noun 'polarity' draws its origins from the Latin language, specifically the word 'polaris,' which is derived from 'polus,' meaning 'end' or 'pole.' In Latin, 'polaris' was used to describe something related to the heavens or celestial spheres. It wasn't until later, during the 17th century, that the term 'polarity' found its way into English with the meaning we understand today. It evolved to represent the condition or state of having two opposite or contrasting attributes, forces, or aspects. Therefore, etymologically, 'polarity' is rooted in the concept of opposing poles or ends, highlighting its connection to the idea of duality and contrast in contemporary usage.

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Further usage examples of polarity

1. The artist used color polarity to create a striking contrast.
2. The polarity of the situation left no room for compromise.
3. The Earth's magnetic polarity reverses over geological time.
4. The polarity of her personality intrigued and puzzled others.
5. The polarity of the magnets determined their alignment.
6. The polarity of the two characters created narrative tension.
7. The polarity between tradition and innovation shaped the industry.
8. The election highlighted the polarity in the country.
9. The polarity of their views made collaboration challenging.
10. In chemistry, understanding polarity is crucial for bonding.
11. The polarity of the battery determines the direction of the electrical current.
12. The polarity of the magnet causes it to attract or repel other magnets.
13. The polarity of the molecule affects its chemical properties and interactions with other molecules.
14. The polarity of the debate was evident, with each side arguing passionately for their point of view.
15. The polarity of the climate was extreme, with scorching heat in the day and freezing cold at night.
16. The polarity of the relationship between the two characters was complex, with both love and hate present at different times.
17. The polarity of the market shifted dramatically, with stocks rising one day and plummeting the next.
18. The polarity of the artist's work reflected her inner turmoil, with both light and dark themes present in her paintings.
19. The polarity of the individual's personality was apparent, with traits of both introversion and extroversion present.
20. The polarity of the sound wave determined whether it was a positive or negative waveform.
21. The polarity of the experiment was critical to its success, with accurate measurements requiring precise control over variables.