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polarizer

polarizer

1 8.4
A person or thing that makes people split into opposing groups
  • noun
  • /ˈpoʊləˌraɪzər/
  • Literature
translation icon : polarizador
  • The controversial article turned the public figure into a polarizer, sparking heated debates.

Examples

  • Like he's one of the most polarizing people probably in entertainment.

  • Candy corn is a polarizing candy.

  • If you stick to your principles, you're a polarizer.

    Blog text (32)

  • I'm so confused how an entire country can be founded on such polarizing ideas.

  • She is She is a polarizing figure, and she is a voice of conservative politics.

  • The bassist from Lamb of God said polarizing content.

  • He tends to be a very polarizing character.

  • The controversial, the polarising Jordan Peterson.

  • A. Leaders, Followers, Polarizers

    Academic text (2001)

  • Many political leaders are seen as polarizers who create division rather than unity.

Synonyms

inflamer
vspolarizer
8.9

A person who says things that make people angry or start fights

causes groups to split into opposing sides over lasting disagreements

Antonyms

mediator
45 4.0

A person who helps two people or groups reach an agreement without taking sides

unifier
4 4.8

A person or thing that brings different people together

How Polarizing

demagogue
19 9.3
polarizer
  • Literature
1 8.4
agitator
16 6.5

Surface Forms

polarizer singular
polarizers plural

Morphology

polarizer = polar (semi-transparent) = polar + izer

While '-izer' suggests an agent or device, the metaphorical use to describe causing division is not immediately obvious.

Etymology

Polarizer is also used for a person or thing that causes strong division and comes from the same polar and pole idea of 'opposite ends'. So a polarizer pushes people or ideas toward 'polar opposites', creating clear and often extreme sides.