electrolyte

noun

elec·​tro·​lyte i-ˈlek-trə-ˌlīt How to pronounce electrolyte (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Mertens regularly monitors Tunsil’s electrolytes and checks for nutrient deficiencies through bloodwork and DEXA scans that measure his body mass and bone density. — Nicki Jhabvala, New York Times, 31 July 2026 Instead of a liquid electrolyte, FEST uses a proprietary solid electrolyte that improves thermal stability while enabling fast lithium-ion transport. — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 30 July 2026 However, those with a history of kidney concerns may need to monitor their electrolyte intake and be mindful of the serving sizes of zucchini. — Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Health, 30 July 2026 Severe diarrhea and vomiting can also lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances and complications that are especially dangerous for children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems, experts warn. — Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 29 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for electrolyte

Word History

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of electrolyte was in 1834

Rhymes for electrolyte

See All Rhymes for electrolyte

Browse Nearby Words

electrolysis
electrolyte
electrolyte acid
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Electrolyte.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/electrolyte. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

electrolyte

noun
elec·​tro·​lyte i-ˈlek-trə-ˌlīt How to pronounce electrolyte (audio)
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 How to pronounce electrolyte (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on electrolyte

Nglish: Translation of electrolyte for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about electrolyte

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