iontophoresis
noun
ion·to·pho·re·sis
(ˌ)ī-ˌän-tə-fə-ˈrē-səs 
plural iontophoreses
(ˌ)ī-ˌän-tə-fə-ˈrē-ˌsēz
: the introduction of an ionized substance (such as a drug) through intact skin by the application of a direct electric current
Examples of iontophoresis in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
This may include iontophoresis, Botox injections, or surgery (in severe cases).3
Iontophoresis uses a mild electrical current to block the sweat glands temporarily.
—
Brandi Jones, Health, 30 July 2025
Recreating those sensations in VR has resulted in a handful of attempts at a flavor user interface, relying on such mechanisms as chemical, thermal, and electrical stimulation, as well as iontophoresis.
—Ars Technica, 26 Nov. 2024
The other methods each came with limitations, such as being too bulky or less safe, so the researchers opted for chemical delivery through a process called iontophoresis, which moves chemicals and ions through hydrogels and has a low electrical-power requirement.
—IEEE Spectrum, 25 Nov. 2024
Tap water iontophoresis: One case report described successful treatment with this procedure, which involves a mild electrical current passed through tap water to temporarily shut off sweat glands.
—Michael Menna, Verywell Health, 28 Oct. 2024
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Brandi Jones, Health, 30 July 2025
Recreating those sensations in VR has resulted in a handful of attempts at a flavor user interface, relying on such mechanisms as chemical, thermal, and electrical stimulation, as well as iontophoresis.
—Ars Technica, 26 Nov. 2024
The other methods each came with limitations, such as being too bulky or less safe, so the researchers opted for chemical delivery through a process called iontophoresis, which moves chemicals and ions through hydrogels and has a low electrical-power requirement.
—IEEE Spectrum, 25 Nov. 2024
Tap water iontophoresis: One case report described successful treatment with this procedure, which involves a mild electrical current passed through tap water to temporarily shut off sweat glands.
—Michael Menna, Verywell Health, 28 Oct. 2024
Cite this Entry
“Iontophoresis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/iontophoresis. Accessed 26 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
iontophoresis
noun
ion·to·pho·re·sis
(ˌ)ī-ˌänt-ə-fə-ˈrē-səs
plural iontophoreses
-ˌsēz
: the introduction of an ionized substance (as a drug) through intact skin by the application of a direct electric current
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