alkalinity

American  

[al-kuh-lin-i-tee] / ˌæl kəˈlɪn ɪ ti /

noun

Chemistry.

1. alkaline condition; the quality that constitutes an alkali.

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alkalinity British  

/ ˌælkəˈlɪnɪtɪ /

noun

1. the quality or state of being alkaline

2. the amount of alkali or base in a solution, often expressed in terms of pH

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Other Word Forms

• hyperalkalinity noun
• superalkalinity noun

Etymology

Origin of alkalinity

First recorded in 1780–90; alkaline + -ity

Example Sentences

This shift toward alkalinity may activate certain enzymes that increase how quickly glucose is absorbed and used by the body.

From Science Daily • Apr. 17, 2026

Southern California soils already tend toward high alkalinity, said biochemist Garn Wallace of Wallace Laboratories, which has tested soil for 35 years.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 24, 2025

The effect of haemodialysis is said to mimic the effect of carbon dioxide in the blood – which increases the pH or alkalinity inside red blood cells.

From Salon • Jan. 29, 2025

“And so we had to figure out what kinds of plants can handle the sharp drainage, the alkalinity, any pollution, the lack of organic matter.”

From Seattle Times • May 15, 2024

Fermentation of organic matter goes on when there is a certain amount of alkalinity present; while, on the other hand, the presence of acidity seems to retard and check it.

From Manures and the principles of manuring by Aikman, Charles Morton