anode

noun

an·​ode ˈa-ˌnōd How to pronounce anode (audio)
1
: the electrode of an electrochemical cell at which oxidation occurs: such as
a
: the positive terminal of an electrolytic cell
b
: the negative terminal of a galvanic cell
2
: the electron-collecting electrode of an electron tube
broadly : the positive electrode of a diode compare cathode
anodic adjective
or less commonly anodal
anodically adverb
or less commonly anodally

Examples of anode in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The company's proprietary battery chemistry relies on cellulose, the structural plant material used to make paper, as the medium for ion transfer between the anode and cathode. New Atlas, 25 Feb. 2025 But previous attempts have generally used ionic liquid electrolytes, which can lead to anode corrosion, especially in humid conditions. IEEE Spectrum, 5 Feb. 2025 Boettcher’s group has its own strategy for protecting the membrane: coating the anode with a thin layer of hafnium oxide. science.org, 23 Jan. 2025 Rust or Corrosion on the Exterior of the Water Heater Tank-style water heaters typically have an anode rod on the inside of the tank that is intended to reduce corrosion and help to prevent rusting. Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for anode

Word History

Etymology

Greek anodos way up, from ana- + hodos way

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of anode was in 1834

Cite this Entry

“Anode.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anode. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

anode

noun
an·​ode ˈan-ˌōd How to pronounce anode (audio)
1
: the positive electrode of an electrolytic cell to which the negative ions are attracted compare cathode
2
: the negative terminal of a battery that is delivering electric current
3
: the electron-collecting electrode of an electron tube
anodic adjective

Medical Definition

anode

noun
an·​ode ˈan-ˌōd How to pronounce anode (audio)
1
: the electrode of an electrochemical cell at which oxidation occurs: as
a
: the positive terminal of an electrolytic cell
b
: the negative terminal of a storage battery that is delivering current
2
: the electron-collecting electrode of an electron tube compare cathode

More from Merriam-Webster on anode

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