electrode

American  

[ih-lek-trohd] / ɪˈlɛk troʊd /

noun

Electricity.

1. a conductor, not necessarily metallic, through which a current enters or leaves a nonmetallic medium, as an electrolytic cell, arc generator, vacuum tube, or gaseous discharge tube.

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electrode British  

/ ɪˈlɛktrəʊd /

noun

1. a conductor through which an electric current enters or leaves an electrolyte, an electric arc, or an electronic valve or tube

2. an element in a semiconducting device that emits, collects, or controls the movement of electrons or holes

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electrode Scientific  

/ ĭ-lĕk′trōd′ /

1. A conductor through which an electric current enters or leaves a substance (or a vacuum) whose electrical characteristics are being measured, used, or manipulated. Electrodes can be used to detect electrical activity such as brain waves. Terminal points in electrical components such as transistors, diodes, and batteries are electrodes.

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Other Word Forms

• interelectrode noun

Etymology

Origin of electrode

First recorded in 1825–35; electr- + -ode ²

Example Sentences

In conventional electronics, heat causes metal atoms in the top electrode to slowly migrate through the ceramic layer.

From Science Daily • Apr. 7, 2026

Sheets of copper and aluminum go through machines that coat electrode slurry.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 24, 2026

The images revealed that what begins as a uniform CMC coating can break apart into uneven, patchy fragments during electrode processing, which may weaken battery performance and stability.

From Science Daily • Feb. 20, 2026

Because binders are present in such small amounts and lack clear visual signatures, scientists have had difficulty determining exactly where they are located within the electrode.

From Science Daily • Feb. 20, 2026

He then attaches a wire to the electrode and switches on the heart monitor.

From "Insurgent" by Veronica Roth