redox
|re-dox|
🇺🇸
/ˈriːdɑks/
🇬🇧
/ˈriːdɒks/
electron transfer
Etymology
'redox' originates from English, specifically as a blend of the words 'reduction' and 'oxidation'.
'reduction' comes from Latin 'reducere' (to lead back), and 'oxidation' from French/Latin 'oxydation' (from Greek 'oxys' meaning 'sharp' or 'acidic'); in the 20th century scientists began to use the clipped blend 'redox' as shorthand for 'reduction–oxidation' and it became established terminology in chemistry.
Originally a shorthand/abbreviation for 'reduction–oxidation'; it evolved into an independent term referring both to the class of reactions and to related adjectival uses (e.g., 'redox state').
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a chemical reaction in which oxidation and reduction (electron loss and gain) occur; short for 'reduction–oxidation reaction'.
The researcher analyzed the redox reaction between the metal and the electrolyte.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
relating to oxidation–reduction processes (used attributively, e.g., 'redox state' or 'redox-active').
Cells maintain a balanced redox state to regulate metabolism.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/08 05:55