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cathode

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈkæθoʊd/

KK: /ˈkæθoʊd/

noun
Definition

A type of electrode that has a negative charge and is used in various electrical devices, such as batteries and electron tubes, where it plays a role in the flow of electricity.


Example

In a battery, the cathode is where the reduction reaction takes place.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of a cathode in electronics?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's the part where the reduction happens, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! It's often used in batteries too.
Sloth B
I find it fascinating how different components work together.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
electrode
terminal
anode
Antonyms
anode
positive
source
Root Explanation

Cathode → It is formed from "cathodikos" (from Greek "kata" meaning down and "hodos" meaning way or path). The term refers to the electrode through which electric current flows out of a polarized electrical device, essentially the path going down in the circuit.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'down path' ('kata' means down and 'hodos' means way) to remember that a cathode is the electrode where current flows out.

Visually Confused Words
acanthodes
acanthodei
acanthodea
cyathoid
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