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

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

Misuse of laxatives has multiple health implications, including severe dehydration, colon and kidney damage, colon infection, irritable bowel syndrome, liver damage and a lack of ample electrolytes and minerals, according to NEDA. —USA TODAY, 17 Jan. 2024

This option provides 333% Daily Value of vitamin C and low amounts of electrolytes, including sodium and potassium. —Lainey Younkin, Ms, Rd, Verywell Health, 22 Mar. 2024

Solid-state batteries use solid electrolytes that aren't flammable, which reduces the risk of fire. —Wesley Chang, CBS News, 5 Mar. 2024

The man was provided with electrolytes, hot packs and blankets to keep him warm during the night before a special team of volunteer rescuers from the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Dept. arrived at about 4:40 a.m. the next morning. —Michael Dorgan, Fox News, 23 Dec. 2023

The man was provided with electrolytes, hot packs and blankets and an engine company stayed with him throughout the night until the rescue effort could resume Friday morning when the tide receded, authorities said. —Meredith Deliso, ABC News, 22 Dec. 2023

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