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Electrode: meaning, definitions and examples

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electrode

 

[ ɪˈlɛk.trəʊd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

electrical component

An electrode is a conductor through which electricity enters or leaves an object, substance, or region. Electrodes are critical components in various electrochemical processes, enabling reactions to occur by providing a pathway for current. They are commonly found in batteries, electrolytic cells, and electroplating. The functionality of an electrode is often determined by its material composition and surface characteristics.

Synonyms

conductor, lead, terminal

Examples of usage

  • The battery's electrodes were corroded.
  • Electrodes are essential for electrolysis.
  • We need to replace the worn-out electrodes in the experiment.
Context #2 | Noun

medical device

In the medical field, electrodes are used to detect and record electrical signals from the body. For example, ECG electrodes are placed on the skin to monitor heart activity. They can also be used in stimulating nerves and muscles in therapeutic applications. Their design and placement are crucial for obtaining accurate readings.

Synonyms

lead, monitor, sensor

Examples of usage

  • The ECG machine uses multiple electrodes.
  • Electrodes help in monitoring brain activity.
  • Doctors placed electrodes on the patient’s scalp.

Translations

Translations of the word "electrode" in other languages:

🇵🇹 eletrodo

🇮🇳 इलेक्ट्रोड

🇩🇪 Elektrode

🇮🇩 elektroda

🇺🇦 електрод

🇵🇱 elektroda

🇯🇵 電極

🇫🇷 électrode

🇪🇸 electrodo

🇹🇷 elektrot

🇰🇷 전극

🇸🇦 قطب كهربائي

🇨🇿 elektroda

🇸🇰 elektroda

🇨🇳 电极

🇸🇮 elektroda

🇮🇸 rafmagnsleiðari

🇰🇿 электрод

🇬🇪 ელექტროდი

🇦🇿 elektrod

🇲🇽 electrodo

Etymology

The term 'electrode' originates from a combination of the prefix 'electro-', which relates to electricity, and the Greek word 'hodos', meaning 'path' or 'way'. The first known use of the term dates back to the early 19th century, around the time when the study of electricity was gaining momentum. The concept of electrodes emerged in the context of electrolysis, which was discovered by chemist Humphry Davy in the early 1800s. The significance of electrodes continued to grow with advancements in technology and electrochemistry. They are now fundamental components in batteries, fuel cells, and various electronic devices, facilitating numerous applications from energy storage to medical diagnostics.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,345 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.