Definition

Describing light or waves that do not have a specific direction of vibration or orientation.

Example

The unpolarized light passed through the lens without any change in its properties.

Conversation

Did you know that the light from the sun is actually unpolarized?

Really? I had no idea it was like that.

Yeah, it has a random pattern of vibrations when it reaches us.

That's so cool! I love learning new things like this.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unpolarized → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "polarized" (from "polar" which comes from Latin "polaris", meaning of the poles). The word "unpolarized" means not having distinct poles or not exhibiting polarization.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') having distinct 'poles' ('polar') — that's why unpolarized means lacking distinct poles.

Visually Confused Words