electrolysis

[ih-lek-trol-uh-sis, ee-lek-]

noun

1. Physical Chemistry.,  the passage of an electric current through an electrolyte with subsequent migration of positively and negatively charged ions to the negative and positive electrodes.

2. the destruction of hair roots, tumors, etc., by an electric current.

electrolysis

/ ɪlɛkˈtrɒlɪsɪs /

noun

1. the conduction of electricity by a solution or melt, esp the use of this process to induce chemical changes

2. the destruction of living tissue, such as hair roots, by an electric current, usually for cosmetic reasons

Word History and Origins

Origin of electrolysis¹

First recorded in 1830–40; electro- + -lysis

Word History and Origins

Origin of electrolysis¹

C19: from _electro- + _-lysis

Example Sentences

However, he notes that there are still challenges in ensuring that electrolysis systems like this don't corrode too quickly over time.

From BBC

Along with colleagues, Palak Patel, a PhD student at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, came up with an experimental molten regolith electrolysis system, for extracting oxygen and metal from the lunar soil.

From BBC

Keith Reid, deputy chief medical officer for Wales, said the rules, which also cover those having acupuncture, electrolysis, piercing, and semi-permanent makeup procedures, would give people an "extra level of assurance around safety".

From BBC

This reaction occurs in many industrially important reactions, for example in the electrolysis of water to produce hydrogen.

From Science Daily

The company, based at Port Kembla, an industrial hub south of Sydney, is using a familiar process known as electrolysis, which involves passing electricity through water to split it into hydrogen and oxygen.

From BBC