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
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In particular, Matteco has developed advanced catalytic material combinations for both anode and cathode compositions, which have been thoroughly characterized and validated by the University of Valencia.
—
Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 21 Dec. 2025
Based on those estimates, roughly 1,000 to 1,400 metric tons of cathode material could have been carried into the smoke plume.
—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
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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Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 21 Dec. 2025
Based on those estimates, roughly 1,000 to 1,400 metric tons of cathode material could have been carried into the smoke plume.
—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
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 23 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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