rhizoverbBeta
DictionarypolarizeWave vibration alignment
verb

polarize

To restrict the vibrations of light or other waves to a particular direction.

This special filter polarizes light so its vibrations share one direction.

Etymology
polarEnglishrelating to poles
+izeEnglishmake

The wave sense arose as light's directional properties were described through an analogy with polarity. Polarizing restricts its vibrations to particular orientations.

More examples

  • Her polarized lenses reduce glare from the lake.
  • The experiment uses a crystal to polarize the laser beam.
  • Reflection from water can partially polarize sunlight.

Forms

polarize · polarizes · polarized · polarizing

polarization noun — Restriction of wave vibrations to particular directions.

polarizer noun — Device that restricts light's vibration direction.