electrolyte

noun

elec·​tro·​lyte i-ˈlek-trə-ˌlīt How to pronounce electrolyte (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Membrane degradation, electrolyte deterioration and unnecessary stress on the electrolysis system all reduce asset value over time. Gregory Shahnovsky, Forbes.com, 26 May 2026 Although many competitors wore full hydration packs during the race, Nagaldinne says the course already offers plenty of aid stations stocked with water, electrolytes and carbs. Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 25 May 2026 And for those jetting off to tropical destinations, coconut water is a sound choice thanks to its naturally high level of electrolytes. Sophia Dyer, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 May 2026 Common mistakes like skipping morning water, overusing caffeine, or ignoring electrolytes can impact hydration. Sarah Jividen, Verywell Health, 22 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for electrolyte

Word History

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of electrolyte was in 1834

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Electrolyte.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/electrolyte. Accessed 31 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

electrolyte

noun
elec·​tro·​lyte i-ˈlek-trə-ˌlīt How to pronounce electrolyte (audio)
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 How to pronounce electrolyte (audio)
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

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