poled

Poled is the past tense and past participle of the verb pole, with multiple senses depending on context. It can describe movement or propulsion by a pole, as in watercraft that are moved forward by thrusting a long pole against the riverbed. It can also describe a state in materials science or magnetism that results from a poling process, or simply denote that a pole-like object has been marked or equipped.

In the context of boats and navigation, to poled a craft means to propel or steer it by poles rather than oars or sails. This method is common in shallow channels or calm waterways where longer poles can reach the bottom, and it is characteristic of certain traditional vessels in various regions.

In materials science, poled refers to a material that has undergone poling, a process used to align electric or magnetic dipoles to create a preferred polarization. Piezoelectric and ferroelectric ceramics (for example, certain PZT compositions) are poled by applying a strong electric field, sometimes at elevated temperature, to enhance their directional response. The resulting poled material exhibits a measurable net polarization and a strengthened electromechanical effect.

In magnetism, poled can describe a magnet or magnetic component that has a defined polarity, or that has been prepared through a poling process to establish a preferred direction of magnetization. The term is used less often than “magnetized” but can appear in technical discussions of magnetic materials.

Etymology: derived from pole, the long rod used for pushing or guiding, with the -ed suffix forming the past tense and past participle. Related terms include poling and poler.