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

The ionization of these clouds won't last forever, fading as the hydrogen and helium atoms regain their neutral electrical charge by picking up loose electrons. —Robert Lea, Space.com, 8 Dec. 2025

Joanna Czech’s treatments combine her manual massage with advanced modalities to sculpt, de-puff and deeply hydrate, including micro current, ultrasound, cryotherapy, oxygen infusion, LED light therapy, negative ionization, the Lyma laser and iontophoresis. —Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 7 Dec. 2025

This is because tablets and capsules require breakdown and ionization before becoming usable by the body. —Fran Kritz, Verywell Health, 2 Dec. 2025

When dying, Sun-like stars have binary companions, spectacular sights arise from the ionization. —Big Think, 3 Nov. 2025

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