Definition

Describing a solution that has a higher concentration of solutes compared to another solution, leading to a greater osmotic pressure.

Example

When the cells are placed in a hypertonic solution, they lose water and shrink.

Conversation

I heard that drinking hypertonic drinks can help with dehydration.

Really? I didn't know that, what do they do?

They have a higher osmotic pressure, which means they can pull water into your cells.

That sounds interesting! I might try one after my workout.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hypertonic is formed from "hyper-" (meaning over or excessive) and "tonic" (from Greek "tonikos", meaning tension or tone). The word describes a solution that has a higher concentration of solutes compared to another solution, leading to an excessive tension in the cells when placed in such a solution.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hyper-' meaning 'over' or 'excessive' and 'tonic' relating to 'tension' — this helps you remember that 'hypertonic' refers to a solution with excessive solute concentration.

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