cation

noun

cat·​ion ˈkat-ˌī-ən 

ˈka-(ˌ)tī-ən

: the ion in an electrolyzed solution that migrates to the cathode

broadly : a positively charged ion

Word History

Etymology

Greek kation, neuter of katiōn, present participle of katienai to go down, from kata- cata- + ienai to go — more at issue entry 1

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

cation

noun

cat·​ion ˈkat-ˌī-ən 

: the ion in solution during electrolysis that travels to the cathode

also : a positively charged ion

Medical Definition

cation

noun

cat·​ion ˈkat-ˌī-ən 

: the ion in an electrolyzed solution that migrates to the cathode

broadly : a positively charged ion