heterolysis

noun

het·​ero·​ly·​sis ˌhe-tə-ˈrä-lə-səs How to pronounce heterolysis (audio) -ə-rə-ˈlī-səs How to pronounce heterolysis (audio)
: decomposition of a compound into two oppositely charged particles or ions
heterolytic adjective

Word History

Etymology

New Latin

First Known Use

1938, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of heterolysis was in 1938

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Cite this Entry

“Heterolysis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heterolysis. Accessed 26 Jul. 2025.

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