Definition

Describing something that is attracted to the negative electrode in an electrical circuit.

Example

The ions moved in a cathodal direction during the experiment.

Conversation

I just read about cathodal processes in my science class.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

It refers to things that are attracted towards a cathode in an electrical circuit.

That sounds interesting! I never thought of it that way.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cathodal → It is formed from "cathode" (from Greek "kathodos", meaning way down) and the suffix "-al" (meaning pertaining to). The word "cathodal" refers to something that is related to or characteristic of a cathode, which is the electrode through which current flows into a polarized electrical device.

Memory Tip

Think of 'cathode' as the 'way down' in Greek, and remember that 'cathodal' means pertaining to that path or electrode.

Visually Confused Words