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

In contrast, the PA-LiMPS/PEO electrolytes retained high conductivity with negligible H2S release after seven days of exposure to humid air. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 2 Mar. 2026

Celery is loaded with nutrients such as vitamin K, which is excellent for bone health, potassium (an electrolyte), and folate to keep cell function running smoothly. —Ayana Underwood, Outside, 2 Mar. 2026

In general, the kidneys in a healthy person do an excellent job of keeping our electrolytes in balance. —ABC News, 28 Feb. 2026

The electrolyte is a gel, which improves energy density without the chemical instability risks of fully solid designs. —New Atlas, 27 Feb. 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