ionization
noun
ion·i·za·tion
ˌī-ə-nə-ˈzā-shən 
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
G. Samuel Hurst and Vladilen S. Letokhov2
: 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
James D. BurkeExamples of ionization in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
By comparing Chandra's observations with the JWST's measurements of hydrogen ionization, the researchers found that galaxies with the most ravenous black holes show the lowest star formation rates.
—Tereza Pultarova, Space.com, 2 Jan. 2025
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
See all Example Sentences for ionization 
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.
Tereza Pultarova, Space.com, 2 Jan. 2025
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
See all Example Sentences for ionization
Dictionary Entries Near ionization
Cite this Entry
“Ionization.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ionization. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share