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

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 24, 2026

The device is known as a microscale optoelectronic tetherless electrode, or MOTE.

From Science Daily • Mar. 24, 2026

When viewed under an electron microscope, these signals provide detailed maps of where specific elements are located and what the electrode surface looks like.

From Science Daily • Feb. 20, 2026

The electrode also proved capable of capturing carbon dioxide at concentrations similar to those found in the atmosphere, showing that it can function in ambient air.

From Science Daily • Jan. 29, 2026

The electrode apparently burst from the strap holding it in place.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson