anion

[ an-ahy-uhn ]

noun

, Physical Chemistry.

1. a negatively charged ion, as one attracted to the anode in electrolysis.
2. any negatively charged atom or group of atoms ( cation ).

anion

/ ˌænaɪˈɒnɪk; ˈænˌaɪən /

noun

1. a negatively charged ion; an ion that is attracted to the anode during electrolysis Compare cation

anion

/ ăn′ī′ən /

1. An ion with net negative charge, having more electrons than protons. In electrolysis, anions migrate to a positively charged anode.
2. Compare cation

Derived Forms

• anionic, adjective

Other Words From

• an·i·on·ic [an-ahy-, on, -ik], adjective
• ani·oni·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of anion¹

Coined in 1834 by English polymath Willaim Whewell (1794–1866) and popularized by English chemist Michael Faraday (1791–1867) in his collection Experimental Researches in Electricity; from Greek, neuter of aniṓn “going up,” present participle of aniénai “to go up,” from an- an- ³ + iénai “to go”; modeled on anode ( def )

Word History and Origins

Origin of anion¹

C19: from ana- + ion

Example Sentences

It will be noticed that in neutralization the anion of the acid and the cation of the base are not changed.

From Project Gutenberg

The king repaired in state to the temple of Anion, seized the priests who professed these seditious beliefs, and burnt them alive.

From Project Gutenberg

The Nile beyond surrounded an island, where flourished the well-kept sacred grove of Anion.

From Project Gutenberg

In a few minutes the priest of Anion and the chief of the kolchytes were being carried towards the valley in their litters.

From Project Gutenberg

In this the heart shall be preserved till a new ram offered by a worthy hand enters the herd of Anion.

From Project Gutenberg