Pronunciation: [jˌuːnɪpˈə͡ʊlə] (IPA) 
The word "unipolar" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /juː.naɪˈpoʊ.lɚ/. The first sound in the word is the "yoo" sound, followed by the "nigh" sound. The third sound is the "poh" sound, followed by the "luh" sound, and the final sound is the "er" sound. This term refers to a condition where the polarity of an electrical system has a single pole or direction, rather than having two opposite poles.
Unipolar refers to a state or condition characterized by a single pole, point, or focus. It can be used in various contexts, including in physics, psychology, and geopolitics.
In physics, unipolar typically refers to a type of magnetic arrangement wherein there is a single magnetic pole, either a north or south pole. This is in contrast to bipolar arrangements, where both poles are present. Unipolar magnets are commonly used in certain electrical devices, such as generators and motors.
In psychology, the term unipolar is commonly associated with mood disorders, particularly major depressive disorder. Unipolar depression is characterized by persistent low mood, lack of interest or pleasure, and feelings of sadness or hopelessness. It is distinguished from bipolar disorder, as individuals with unipolar depression do not experience manic or hypomanic episodes.
In geopolitics, unipolar refers to a global power structure or system where one nation-state dominates politically, economically, and militarily. In a unipolar world, there is a single superpower, which exercises significant influence and control over international affairs. This concept gained prominence after the end of the Cold War, with some arguing that the United States emerged as the sole superpower, leading to a unipolar international system.
Overall, the term unipolar describes a condition of singularity, whether it pertains to magnetic poles, mood disorders, or the distribution of global power.
Having but one pole, noting a nerve-cell in which the branches project from one side only.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "unipolar" is derived from the combination of two roots: "uni-" and "-polar".
The prefix "uni-" comes from the Latin word "unus", meaning "one" or "single". It is commonly used as a prefix in English to indicate singularity, uniformity, or dominance of one. For example, "unicycle" refers to a cycle with only one wheel, "unicorn" represents a mythical creature with a single horn, and "union" denotes the act of joining together as one entity.
The root "-polar" is derived from the Latin word "polus", meaning "end" or "extremity". It is often used in scientific terms related to electricity, magnetism, and chemistry. For instance, "polar" refers to having a positive and negative pole or being attracted to a magnetic pole.
