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.
Packed with electrolytes and nutrients, Vita Coco Coconut Water elevates smoothies by providing a delicious, functional alternative to traditional bases like dairy or juice. Tracy Yochum, Charlotte Observer, 10 Feb. 2025 These electrolytes are crucial for everything from heart function to muscle contractions. Bryn Beeder, The Conversation, 21 Jan. 2025 Their projects included testing electrolytes in different drinks, identifying ingredients in sunscreen and designing solar panels that rotate to capture the most energy. Noah Lyons, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Jan. 2025 Unlike liquid electrolytes, Ampcera’s solid-state materials achieve higher energy density, safety, and durability. William Mullane, USA TODAY, 31 Jan. 2025 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

Dictionary Entries Near electrolyte

Cite this Entry

“Electrolyte.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/electrolyte. Accessed 19 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

electrolyte

noun
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
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

More from Merriam-Webster on electrolyte

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