bipolar

/baɪˈpoʊlər/

/baɪˈpʌʊlər/

The prefix "bi-" means two, so bipolar means having two opposing poles. Often, this is the name of a type of mental illness.

Anything with two poles or opposites can be considered bipolar. The yin and yang symbol (black and white or male and female) is an example of bipolar or opposing natures. However, this term is used most often to describe bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, which is when you experience very high highs and very low lows with your emotions. The negative and positive charge on a neuron or a transistor can also be called bipolar.

Definitions of bipolar

1. adjective

   of, pertaining to, or occurring in both polar regions
   “the bipolar distribution of certain species”
2. adjective

   having two poles
   synonyms:

   Janus-faced

   having or concerned with polarities or contrasts

   antonyms:

   unipolar

   having a single pole
3. adjective

   of or relating to manic depressive illness