ionization

noun

ion·​i·​za·​tion ˌī-ə-nə-ˈzā-shən 

plural ionizations

1

: the act or process of ionizing something : conversion of a substance into ions

Then other photons, collisions or an electric field cause ionization of the excited neutral species.

—G. Samuel Hurst and Vladilen S. Letokhov

2

: the state of being ionized

While the light flashes themselves are not harmful, the tissue ionization caused by the intruding particle near the end of its track is indeed deadly to some affected cells.

—James D. Burke

Examples of ionization in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

There are two primary sensors included: photoelectric and ionization. —Nena Farrell, Wired News, 15 Apr. 2026

Solar flares, intense bursts of energy in the sun's atmosphere, can trigger radio blackouts on Earth by increasing ionization in the upper atmosphere, which disrupts radio signals. —Ryan French, Space.com, 13 Apr. 2026

Fusion engine takes shape In this initial phase, Pulsar used krypton gas as a propellant because of its ionization efficiency and stable behavior during testing. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 26 Mar. 2026

The crackle or buzz that high voltage power lines are known for is caused by the ionization of the air by the electric field around the conductor. —Ray Petelin, CBS News, 21 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

ion + -ization

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing ionization

• ionization chamber

Rhymes for ionization

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation