What does polar mean?
Polar is most commonly an adjective meaning relating to the Earth's polar regions, the Arctic and Antarctic. It also describes the poles or axes of mathematical and physical systems: a polar coordinate has an angle and a radius, while magnetic and electric polarity concerns opposite poles. In chemistry, a polar bond or molecule has an uneven distribution of charge. The word is also used figuratively for a sharply divided situation, as when an issue polarizes opinion into opposing camps. In that sense, polarized often suggests a binary division and can carry a mildly critical or pejorative tone, especially in political discussion. The noun polars is uncommon but valid for the opposite points of an axis or sphere, and related forms include polarity and polarize. Polar comes from Latin polaris, “of the pole,” through the Greek word for axis or pivot. Its range—from frozen geography to abstract opposition—makes it a precise and memorable word.
Of or relating to the North or South Pole, the polar regions, a geometric or physical pole, an axis, or opposing groups or beliefs.
"The expedition was equipped to survive the polar winter."
The geographical and technical senses are neutral, while figurative political uses may imply an undesirable division into opposing camps.
Either of the two opposite poles of a sphere, axis, or similar system.
"The two polars lie at opposite ends of the axis."
The noun is relatively uncommon and occurs chiefly in mathematical, astronomical, and geographical contexts.
The plural is rare and is chiefly used for the two opposite poles of a mathematical, astronomical, or physical system.
"The two polars of the sphere are diametrically opposite."
Polar originally meant “of the pole”; English later applied it to everything with an axis—even the opposing camps in an argument.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does polar come from?
English borrowed polar from Medieval Latin polaris, meaning “of the pole,” from Latin polus (“pole”), which in turn reflects Greek polos (“axis” or “pivot”). The adjective was originally associated with the celestial poles and the polar regions before extending to geometry, magnetism, and figurative opposition. Its relatives include polarity, polarize, and bipolar, all preserving the same idea of poles or opposite ends.
Related word forms
How polar is actually used
Most geographical and scientific uses are neutral. In political and social commentary, polar and especially polarized can suggest an undesirable binary split, so the term often carries an evaluative tone.
Easily confused with polar
A pole is a point, axis, or physical rod, whereas polar is principally an adjective describing something associated with a pole.