verb
ionize
EYE-uh-nyze
Ionize (verb) means to split atoms or molecules into electrically charged particles, or to become split in this way. Example: “Sunlight can ionize gas molecules high in the atmosphere.”
verb
1
chemistry To split atoms or molecules into electrically charged particles, or to become split in this way.
"Sunlight can ionize gas molecules high in the atmosphere."
"The device uses a strong electric field to ionize the air passing through it."
"Certain salts ionize readily when they dissolve in water."
How to use ionize
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo ionize something means to turn its particles into electrically charged ones.
When to use it
Ionize is a technical chemistry and physics term rather than everyday vocabulary.
Memory tip
In British English you will often see this spelled ionise instead, with exactly the same meaning.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
ionise
Common pairings
ionize the air
ionize a gas
readily ionize
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Sunlight can _____ gas molecules high in the atmosphere.
Etymology
Ionize is formed from ion, meaning a charged particle, with the verb-forming ending -ize added to turn it into an action word.
Rhymes for ionize
See all rhymes for ionize →Frequently asked questions
What does ionize mean?
To ionize something is to split its atoms or molecules into electrically charged particles, called ions.
Is ionize the same as ionise?
Yes, ionise is simply the non-Oxford British spelling of the same verb.
What causes a substance to ionize?
A substance can ionize through exposure to radiation, an electric field, or by dissolving in a liquid such as water.
What is the meaning of ionize?
"ionize" (verb) means to split atoms or molecules into electrically charged particles, or to become split in this way.
