hyperpolarize

[ hahy-per-poh-luh-rahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, hy·per·po·lar·ized, hy·per·po·lar·iz·ing.

1. to increase the difference in electric potential across (a cell membrane).

verb (used without object)

, hy·per·po·lar·ized, hy·per·po·lar·iz·ing.

1. to undergo such an increase.

Other Words From

• hyper·polar·i·zation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of hyperpolarize¹

First recorded in 1945–50; hyper- + polarize