1. a device or filter that allows light waves to vibrate in only one plane, reducing glare and reflections
Usage: optics; photography
2. something that causes division or creates opposing groups or viewpoints
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The photographer attached a polarizer to reduce reflections on the water.
• Sunglasses often contain a polarizer to cut down on glare from bright surfaces.
• The polarizer helped improve the contrast in the landscape photo.
• Scientists used a polarizer to study the properties of the light beam.
• The controversial policy became a polarizer in the community.
• His extreme views made him a polarizer rather than a bridge-builder.