Electrodialytic

/ɪˌlɛktroʊdaɪəˈlɪtɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to the separation of ions or dissolved substances using electricity passed through a membrane, a method used to purify water and other liquids.

Etymology

From electro- (electrical) + dialytic (relating to dialysis, from Greek dia- 'through' + lysis 'loosening'). The term emerged in the 19th century as electrochemistry developed, combining electrical energy with the separation principle of dialysis.

Kelly Says

Electrodialysis became crucial for desalinating seawater and purifying industrial waste—it's essentially using electricity as a microscopic bouncer that selectively removes unwanted ions while letting water through. This technology helped make drinking water accessible in arid regions worldwide.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.