ionization

noun

ion·​i·​za·​tion ˌī-ə-nə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce ionization (audio)
plural ionizations
1
: the act or process of ionizing something : conversion of a substance into ions
Then other photons, collisions or an electric field cause ionization of the excited neutral species.G. Samuel Hurst and Vladilen S. Letokhov
2
: the state of being ionized
While the light flashes themselves are not harmful, the tissue ionization caused by the intruding particle near the end of its track is indeed deadly to some affected cells.James D. Burke

Examples of ionization 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.
For a more hands-off approach, ionization techniques—like using copper wires to direct atmospheric energy into the ground—are said to enhance soil health and plant vitality. Kristin Guy, Sunset Magazine, 10 Oct. 2024 The dogs could also be sensing the ionization of air at pressurized rock surfaces as well as changes in electrical field or the smell of chemicals that are released. Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 2 May 2024 Realizing such ionization cooling may be physicists’ biggest challenge. Byadrian Cho, science.org, 28 Mar. 2024 The citizen scientists will reveal how a short, sudden darkness affects the way radio waves propagate in the ionosphere—and how this may alter its overall ionization. Catherine Duncan, Smithsonian Magazine, 18 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for ionization 

Word History

Etymology

ion + -ization

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of ionization was in 1891

Dictionary Entries Near ionization

Cite this Entry

“Ionization.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ionization. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!