hypotonic

[ hahy-puh-ton-ik ]

adjective

1. Physiology. (of tissue) having less than the normal tone.
2. Physical Chemistry. noting a solution of lower osmotic pressure than another solution with which it is compared ( hypertonic ). Compare isotonic ( def 1 ).

hypotonic

/ ˌhaɪpəˈtɒnɪk; ˌhaɪpətəˈnɪsɪtɪ /

adjective

1. pathol (of muscles) lacking normal tone or tension
2. (of a solution) having a lower osmotic pressure than that of a specified, generally physiological, solution Compare hypertonic isotonic

Derived Forms

• hypotonicity, noun

Other Words From

• hy·po·to·nic·i·ty [hahy-poh-toh-, nis, -i-tee], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of hypotonic¹

First recorded in 1890–95; hypo- + tonic

Example Sentences

In a hypotonic solution they swell up and burst, the hmoglobin dissolving in the liquid and colouring it red.

From Project Gutenberg

These give it an osmotic pressure which prevents the deleterious effects of a strongly hypotonic liquid.

From Project Gutenberg

Under the influence of such a hypotonic solution the dry cells rapidly swell up, burst, and are dissolved.

From Project Gutenberg

It gains weight in a hypotonic solution, the water current setting towards the point of higher concentration.

From Project Gutenberg

A bipolar field has a hypertonic pole or centre of concentration, and a hypotonic pole or centre of dilution.

From Project Gutenberg