two poles; both extremes; polar opposites
Meanings
3 senses · 10 examplesnoun
the North Pole and the South Pole (of the Earth)
Refers specifically to the geographical poles.
The Earth's poles are covered in ice and snow.
The impact of climate warming is particularly significant on the polar regions.
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The expedition's goal is to reach one of the poles.
noun
the cathode and anode (of an electrode); the south and north poles (of a magnet)
technicalUsed in physics and electrical engineering contexts.
A battery has two poles, the positive and the negative.
The two poles of a magnet attract each other.
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Do not reverse the polarity of the power source.
noun
two extremes; two diametrically opposed sides
Used metaphorically to describe a situation where two opposing sides are far apart, often implying conflict or imbalance.
The wealth gap in society has led to severe polarization.
Their viewpoints are at two completely opposite poles.
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This policy could intensify societal polarization.
The discussion quickly turned into a polarized argument.