Definition of ELECTROLYSIS

electrolysis

Meanings

Plural: electrolyses

Noun

  • (chemistry) a chemical decomposition reaction produced by passing an electric current through a solution containing ions
  • removing superfluous or unwanted hair by passing an electric current through the hair root
  • The chemical change produced by passing an electric current through a conducting solution or a molten salt.
  • The destruction of hair roots by means of an electric current.

Origin / Etymology

Coined by English polymath William Whewell in 1834 for Michael Faraday. From electro- + -lysis (“a loosening”). Originally of tumors, later (1909) of hair removal.

Scrabble Score: 17

electrolysis is a valid Scrabble (US) TWL word
electrolysis is a valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
electrolysis is a valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 19

electrolysis is a valid Words With Friends word