electrode

noun

elec·​trode i-ˈlek-ˌtrōd How to pronounce electrode (audio)
1
: a conductor used to establish electrical contact with a nonmetallic part of a circuit
2
: an element in a semiconductor device (such as a transistor) that emits or collects electrons or holes or controls their movements

Examples of electrode in a Sentence

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.
Battery holds capacity longer In full-cell tests, the electrolyte helped form a stable interface between the electrode and electrolyte. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 31 Oct. 2026 Threaded throughout with sensitive electrodes, the shorts can pick up even slight electrical activity in the muscle cells of the quadriceps, hamstrings and glutes. — Gretchen Reynolds, Washington Post, 28 Oct. 2026 The problem, however, is its high chloride content, which can corrode electrodes and other electrolyzer components, and also trigger unwanted reactions that produce toxic chlorine compounds. — New Atlas, 24 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for electrode

Word History

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of electrode was in 1833

Phrases Containing electrode

Rhymes for electrode

See All Rhymes for electrode

Browse Nearby Words

electrocutor trap
electrode
electrodecantation
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Cite this Entry

“Electrode.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/electrode. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

electrode

noun
elec·​trode i-ˈlek-ˌtrōd How to pronounce electrode (audio)
: a conductor (as a metal or carbon) used to make electrical contact with a part of an electrical circuit that is not metallic

Medical Definition

electrode

noun
elec·​trode i-ˈlek-ˌtrōd How to pronounce electrode (audio)
: a conductor used to establish electrical contact with a nonmetallic part of a circuit

More from Merriam-Webster on electrode

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about electrode

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