1
: the electrode of an electrochemical cell at which reduction occurs:
a
: the negative terminal of an electrolytic cell
b
: the positive terminal of a galvanic cell
2
: the electron-emitting electrode of an electron tube
broadly
: the negative electrode of a diode compare anode
cathodally
adverb
Examples of cathode in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The energy in rechargeable batteries comes from the flow of electrons released by lithium atoms in the anode moving toward the cathode.
—
Ivano W. Aiello, The Conversation, 1 Dec. 2025
The film’s central image of Fatima carrying a cathode-ray television on a yak across the Himalayas operates on multiple levels.
—Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 1 Dec. 2025
In its standard state, the polymer chains in this material are convoluted and entangled, hindering the efficient movement of lithium ions between the cathode and anode.
—Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 27 Nov. 2025
With an anode, cathode, separator, electrolyte, and other electrical elements, even fly-by-night battery makers can get the cells to work.
—Andrew Moseman, IEEE Spectrum, 22 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for cathode
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Ivano W. Aiello, The Conversation, 1 Dec. 2025
The film’s central image of Fatima carrying a cathode-ray television on a yak across the Himalayas operates on multiple levels.
—Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 1 Dec. 2025
In its standard state, the polymer chains in this material are convoluted and entangled, hindering the efficient movement of lithium ions between the cathode and anode.
—Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 27 Nov. 2025
With an anode, cathode, separator, electrolyte, and other electrical elements, even fly-by-night battery makers can get the cells to work.
—Andrew Moseman, IEEE Spectrum, 22 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for cathode
Cite this Entry
“Cathode.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cathode. Accessed 3 Dec. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
cathode
noun
cath·ode
ˈkath-ˌōd 
1
: the negative electrode of an electrolytic cell compare anode sense 1
2
: the positive terminal of a battery
3
: the electron-emitting electrode of an electron tube
Medical Definition
cathode
noun
cath·ode
ˈkath-ˌōd
1
: the electrode of an electrochemical cell at which reduction occurs: as
a
: the negative terminal of an electrolytic cell
b
: the positive terminal of a storage battery that is delivering current
2
: the electron-emitting electrode of an electron tube compare anode
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