Polarization has been chosen as Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Year for 2024, reflecting the growing divide in society, politics, and culture. This term captures the essence of a world increasingly characterized by extremes, sparking widespread interest and discussions across various domains.
Polarization: A Word Reflecting the Times
Merriam-Webster defines polarization as “division into two sharply distinct opposites; especially, a state in which the opinions, beliefs, or interests of a group or society no longer range along a continuum but become concentrated at opposing extremes.” This definition encapsulates the stark divisions witnessed in the political landscape of the United States and beyond.
Throughout 2024, polarization was at the center of countless debates and headlines. Fox News highlighted the issue with reports such as “Vance’s debate answer on immigration crisis shows voter polarization,” while MSNBC observed the ever-growing divisions in statements like, “The 2024 presidential election has left our country more polarized than ever.”
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Beyond politics, the term was also applied to workplace dynamics, as Forbes discussed “cultural polarization” as a pressing challenge within organizations.
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The roots of polarization trace back to the early 19th century when the term was used in the context of light waves. This scientific origin described a phenomenon in which light waves vibrate in a definite pattern. Over time, the concept evolved into a metaphor for the ideological and cultural divides shaping societies today.
Notable Words That Defined 2024
While polarization took the top spot, other words also resonated with the public and saw significant spikes in searches throughout the year:
Totality:
In April, totality captured the public’s imagination during a rare solar eclipse. This word, meaning “the phase of an eclipse during which it is total,” saw a surge in lookups as millions of Americans traveled across 13 states to witness the awe-inspiring phenomenon of the moon briefly turning day into night.
Demure:
August brought unexpected attention to this word through TikTok, where influencer Jools Lebron popularized the catchphrase “very demure, very mindful.” Originally describing individuals who avoid drawing attention to themselves, the term gained a new lease on life as a meme, sparking discussions about its nuanced meanings and the power of social media in shaping language trends.
Fortnight:
Taylor Swift’s song “Fortnight” revived interest in this traditionally British term meaning “a period of 14 days.” With its origins in Old English, the word became a topic of fascination, leading many to wonder whether Swift’s influence could popularize its use in American English.
Pander:
In the politically charged atmosphere of the U.S. presidential election, pander saw a dramatic rise in usage. The term, which means “to say, do, or provide what someone wants or demands even though it is not proper, good, or reasonable,” was wielded as a weapon by both sides of the political spectrum. Accusations of pandering—from Vice President Kamala Harris appealing to various voter groups to Donald Trump’s fast-food kitchen visit—illustrated the word’s enduring relevance in political discourse.
The Language of Division and Unity
The selection of polarization as Word of the Year underscores the role language plays in shaping our understanding of complex societal dynamics. The term not only highlights the divisions that characterize modern life but also serves as a call for reflection and dialogue.
Words like totality, demure, fortnight, and pander demonstrate the diverse ways language adapts to cultural, scientific, and social trends. Whether through astronomical events, viral memes, or heated political debates, these terms reflect the evolving concerns and interests of people worldwide.
Merriam-Webster’s announcement reminds us of the power of words to encapsulate shared experiences, fuel conversations, and foster greater understanding. Polarization, with its dual scientific and cultural significance, is a fitting choice for 2024—a year marked by contrasts and complexities.