Merriam-Webster declares polarization word of the year amid division

In the United States, Merriam-Webster named polarization its word of the year for 2020, reflecting the division within the country during an election year. This choice highlighted how both sides of the political spectrum could agree on the concept of polarization amid heightened political tensions, as noted by Kamala Harris and Donald Trump’s conflicting rhetoric. The term, which has been part of scientific language since the early 1800s, has shifted in use, particularly relating to politics and culture, indicating a broader societal divide. Merriam-Webster based its selection on search traffic, noting that the word polarization was commonly sought out, mirroring the public's awareness of the deep divisions in American society. In addition to polarization, Merriam-Webster considered several other words for its prestigious ranking, including demure, totality, pander, and democracy. The popularity of these words reflected various cultural phenomena, including social media trends and significant political events leading up to the election. The presence of these terms in public discourse underscores changing attitudes and increasing scrutiny over the behavior of political figures as voters showed heightened interest in their implications. Peter Sokolowski, Merriam-Webster's editor-at-large, remarked on the evolution of language and society's growing interest in terms that underscore the political climate, revealing how consistently people seek to understand concepts that resonate with their experiences. The frequent and diverse searches of these words suggest an engaged public that is actively paying attention to important issues, indicating that language can serve as a barometer for societal concerns. Merriam-Webster's ability to track and analyze search behavior ultimately offers valuable insights into the topics that dominate national conversations. By selecting a term that embodies such a critical aspect of contemporary American life, Merriam-Webster not only reflects the linguistic trends but also the real-world implications of the divisions within society. As polarization continues to influence various sectors, from politics to celebrity culture, it serves as a reminder of the challenges that stem from diverging viewpoints and the importance of dialogue to bridge these gaps.