dialysis

di·al·y·sis

noun \dī-ˈa-lə-səs\

plural di·al·y·ses\-ˌsēz\

Definition of DIALYSIS

1

: the separation of substances in solution by means of their unequal diffusion through semipermeable membranes; especially : such a separation of colloids from soluble substances

2

: the process of removing blood from an artery (as of a kidney patient), purifying it by dialysis, adding vital substances, and returning it to a vein —called also hemodialysis

— di·a·lyt·ic \ˌdī-ə-ˈli-tik\ adjective

Origin of DIALYSIS

New Latin, from Greek, separation, from dialyein to dissolve, from dia- + lyein to loosen — more at lose

First Known Use: 1861

Rhymes with DIALYSIS

analysis, catalysis, paralysis