1. electrolysis(n = noun.process) - (chemistry) a chemical decomposition reaction produced by passing an electric current through a solution containing ions;
is a kind of chemical decomposition reaction, decomposition, decomposition reaction
Derived form adjective electrolytic1
2. electrolysis(n = noun.act) - removing superfluous or unwanted hair by passing an electric current through the hair root;
is a kind of depilation, epilation
The act or process of chemical decomposition, by the action of electricity; as, the electrolysis of silver or nickel for plating; the electrolysis of water. [1913 Webster]
electrolysis, n.
1 Chem. the decomposition of a substance by the application of an electric current.
2 Surgery this process applied to the destruction of tumours, hair-roots, etc.
Derivative:
electrolytic adj. electrolytical adj. electrolytically adv.
Etymology:
ELECTRO- + -LYSIS