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 electrolyte is made from a hydrogel, a substance roughly the consistency of a soft contact lens. —IEEE Spectrum, 5 Apr. 2024

For example, researchers are exploring swapping out the usual battery electrolyte and replacing it with an alternative electrolyte that doesn't thicken at cold temperatures. —Wesley Chang, CBS News, 5 Mar. 2024

Now the company will have electrolytes and protein powder, for example, thanks to the infusion of Brady's brands. —Chris Bumbaca, USA TODAY, 30 Jan. 2024

There are also water cups, electrolyte drinks and energy gels. —Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 Jan. 2024

Whole grains Replenishing lost electrolytes helps maintain healthy magnesium levels. —Kathleen Felton, Health, 16 Jan. 2024

Each packet offers three times more electrolytes than leading sports drinks, according to the brand, and features a healthy blend of sodium, zinc, vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium to help your immune system and energy levels. —Alesandra Dubin, Travel + Leisure, 19 Mar. 2024

Balance your meals using the healthy plate model, drink enough water and add electrolytes as needed. —Jocelyn Solis-Moreira, CNN, 10 Mar. 2024

On-the-go electrolytes Liquid I.V. Sugar-Free Hydration Multiplier - White Peach Obviously Liquid I.V. —Lindy Segal, Glamour, 13 Feb. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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