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

The design eliminates flammable liquid electrolytes and thermal runaway risks, addressing long-standing safety concerns associated with conventional lithium-ion batteries. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 6 Jan. 2026

The electrolytes, combined with organic compounds like betaine and inositol, help your skin retain moisture, strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, and balance your complexion, too. —Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 5 Jan. 2026

Chaney said getting electrolytes, sodium, potassium and magnesium is extremely important in fast-paced, long games like basketball and hockey. —Sam Jane, New York Times, 3 Jan. 2026

Banana adds fiber, which is great for better bowel health, plus potassium to help replenish electrolytes. —Ashia Aubourg, Outside, 3 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for electrolyte

• actinolite
• adipocyte
• amphibolite
• anorthosite
• anthophyllite
• aragonite
• carbonatite
• cassiterite
• cristobalite
• crocidolite
• diatomite
• dithionite

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