polarity
UK: pəʊˈlærəti | US: poʊˈlærəti
n. the state of having two opposite or contradictory tendencies, opinions, or aspects
n. (physics) the property of having poles or being aligned with a magnetic or electric field
n. (biology) the orientation of structures along an axis, e.g., cell polarity
The word "polarity" derives from the Late Latin "polaritas," formed by combining "polar" (from Latin "polus," meaning "end of an axis" or "pole") and the noun-forming suffix "-ity." The root "polus" traces back to Greek "polos" (pivot, axis), reflecting the concept of opposing ends. Over time, "polarity" expanded from its literal magnetic/geographic sense to abstract oppositions (e.g., ideological polarity). The suffix "-ity" (from Latin "-itas") systematically converts adjectives into nouns denoting states or qualities.
The polarity between the two political parties has intensified in recent years.
A magnet’s polarity determines its attraction or repulsion to other magnets.
Scientists study cell polarity to understand tissue development.
The debate highlighted the polarity of opinions on climate change.
Reversing the battery’s polarity may damage the device.