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
a-ˈnä-dik How to pronounce anode (audio)
adjective
or less commonly anodal
a-ˈnō-dᵊl How to pronounce anode (audio)
anodically
a-ˈnō-di-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce anode (audio)
adverb
or less commonly anodally
a-ˈnō-dᵊl-ē How to pronounce anode (audio)

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.
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 This technology could allow the anode, cathode, and other components to be stacked on top of each other to make the battery compact and increase its energy density. — & Jibin Joseph, PCMAG, 22 Jan. 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

Rhymes for anode

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Browse Nearby Words

anode
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Cite this Entry

“Anode.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anode. Accessed 10 Mar. 2025.

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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
a-ˈnäd-ik How to pronounce anode (audio)
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

Nglish: Translation of anode for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about anode

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