ionization

noun

ion·​i·​za·​tion ˌī-ə-nə-ˈzā-shən 

plural ionizations

1

: the act or process of ionizing something : conversion of a substance into ions

Then other photons, collisions or an electric field cause ionization of the excited neutral species.

—G. Samuel Hurst and Vladilen S. Letokhov

2

: the state of being ionized

While the light flashes themselves are not harmful, the tissue ionization caused by the intruding particle near the end of its track is indeed deadly to some affected cells.

—James D. Burke

Examples of ionization in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This process and the flood of electrons and positrons would provide the energy needed to strip electrons away from neutral atoms, a process called ionization, in dense gas in the center of the Milky Way. —Robert Lea, Space.com, 10 Mar. 2025

These include protection from the ionization of the air around conductors (the corona effect), providing a moisture barrier, shielding from electromagnetic interference, promoting thermal conductivity, and providing mechanical strength and durability. —Amy Jankovsky, IEEE Spectrum, 30 Nov. 2023

There is, however, an unexplained faint gamma-ray glow from the Galactic Center that might also be linked to positrons and ionization. —Robert Lea, Space.com, 10 Mar. 2025

Stellar radiation and ionization also directly impact the temperature of the disk, affecting how the dust and gas move. —Nola Taylor Tillman, Space.com, 17 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

ion + -ization

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing ionization

• ionization chamber

Rhymes for ionization

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation