noun
cathode
KATH-ohd/ˈkæθəʊd/
An electrode through which conventional electric current leaves a device.
The diagram marks the cathode where conventional current leaves the device.
Etymology
“Down” and “way” supplied the image of a downward path, named for the route electric current was supposed to take. The term now names the electrode where electrons enter a device.
In context
A cathode that easily accepts electrons.
More examples
- The experiment compares reactions at the cathode and anode.
- Electrons enter the electrolytic cell through its cathode.
- The battery contains a specially designed cathode material.
Forms
cathode · cathodes