electrolyte

noun

elec·​tro·​lyte i-ˈlek-trə-ˌlīt 

1

: a nonmetallic electric conductor in which current is carried by the movement of ions

2

a

: a substance that when dissolved in a suitable solvent or when fused becomes an ionic conductor

b

: any of the ions (as of sodium or calcium) that in biological fluid regulate or affect most metabolic processes (such as the flow of nutrients into and waste products out of cells)

Examples of electrolyte in a Sentence

The drink will replenish your electrolytes.

Recent Examples on the Web

Solid Power has extended its joint development agreement with BMW and continues to work on enhancing its electrolyte and cell designs. —Quartz Bot, Quartz, 8 Nov. 2024

According to the Cleveland Clinic, IV fluids are most commonly used to treat patients experiencing dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can be caused by vomiting and diarrhea, spending too much time in the heat, or serious injuries or burns. —Charlotte Phillipp, People.com, 28 Oct. 2024

Fast lithium ion transfer is ensured by a fast ion conductor coating on the cathode, fast-charging graphite and novel nano-coating technologies for the anode, multi-gradient layered electrode design, and ultra-high conductivity electrolyte formulation. —New Atlas, 24 Oct. 2024

Without treatment, the condition can become life-threatening within days due to the accumulation of waste products and electrolyte imbalances in the body.17 What are the 3 stages of acute kidney failure? —Lindsay Curtis, Health, 13 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

electrolyte

noun

elec·​tro·​lyte i-ˈlek-trə-ˌlīt 

1

: a conductor in which electric current is carried by the movement of ions that are not metallic

2

a

: a substance that when dissolved in a suitable solvent or when melted becomes an ionic conductor

b

: an ion (as of sodium) that regulates or affects metabolic processes of the body (as the movement of waste products out of a cell)

Medical Definition

electrolyte

noun

elec·​tro·​lyte i-ˈlek-trə-ˌlīt 

1

: a nonmetallic electric conductor in which current is carried by the movement of ions

2

a

: a substance (as an acid, base, or salt) that when dissolved in a suitable solvent (as water) or when fused becomes an ionic conductor

b

: any of the ions (as of sodium, potassium, calcium, or bicarbonate) that in a biological fluid regulate or affect most metabolic processes (as the flow of nutrients into and waste products out of cells)

—used especially in biology and biochemistry