anion

[ an-ahy-uhn ]

/ ˈænˌaɪ ən /

Save This Word!

noun Physical Chemistry.

a negatively charged ion, as one attracted to the anode in electrolysis.

any negatively charged atom or group of atoms (opposed to cation).

QUIZ

WILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?

Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!

Question 1 of 7

Fill in the blank: I can’t figure out _____ gave me this gift.

who

whom

TAKE THE QUIZ TO FIND OUT

Origin of anion

1825–35; <Greek, neuter of aniṓn going up (present participle of aniénai to go up), equivalent to an-an-³ + -i- go + -ōn present participle suffix

OTHER WORDS FROM anion

an·i·on·ic

[an-ahy-on-ik], /ˌæn aɪˈɒn ɪk/, adjectivean·i·on·i·cal·ly, adverb

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

British Dictionary definitions for anion

anion

/ (ˈænˌaɪən) /

noun

a negatively charged ion; an ion that is attracted to the anode during electrolysisCompare cation

Derived forms of anion

anionic (ˌænaɪˈɒnɪk), adjective

Word Origin for anion

C19: from ana- + ion

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Scientific definitions for anion

anion

[ ăn′ī′ən ]

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