pole (1) definition - Dictionary

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pole (1)

pole [ pōl ] (plural poles)

noun

Definition:

1. North or South Pole: either of the two points on the Earth, the North and South Poles, that are the endpoints of its axis of rotation, are farthest from the equator, and are surrounded by icecaps

2. endpoint of sphere axis: either of the two endpoints of the axis of rotation of a sphere, planet, or other astronomical object

3. astronomy
Same as celestial pole

4. either of two opposites: either of two completely opposed or contrasted positions, states, or views

They're at opposite poles as far as their taste in music is concerned.

5. physics end of magnet: either of the two ends of a magnet or magnetized body, where the lines of force are most concentrated

6. electricity positive or negative terminal: either of two terminals in something such as a battery, generator, or motor that have opposite electric charges

7. physiology distinct region in cell: either of two opposite regions that are physiologically or functionally distinct in an organism, cell, or structure, e.g. the opposite ends of the spindle structure formed in the nucleus of a cell during cell division

8. mathematics origin of polar coordinates: the origin in a polar coordinate system

9. reference point: a fixed point of reference ( literary )

[14th century. Via Latin< Greek polos "axis"]

be poles apart to be as different or as opposed as it is possible to be

Spelling Note


	pole or poll? Do not confuse the spelling of pole and poll, which sound similar. A pole is a long straight piece of wood, metal, etc. (as in a ski pole, the pole vault) or either of two opposite regions of the Earth, a magnet, etc. (as in the South Pole, be poles apart). Poll is a noun or verb referring to an election or survey, as in going to the polls, an opinion poll.