Definition

Noun: 1. The process of combining with water; usually reversible: In chemistry, "hydration" refers to the chemical reaction where a substance combines with water molecules. This process is typically reversible, meaning the water can be removed under certain conditions. 2. The act of providing or obtaining adequate water: In a biological or physiological context, "hydration" commonly refers to the process of supplying the body with sufficient fluid or water to maintain normal function.

Examples of Usage

• The hydration of anhydrous copper sulfate turns it from white to blue.
• Proper hydration is essential for athletes to maintain peak performance.
• The hydration of the cement mixture is a critical step in the hardening process.
• Doctors emphasize the importance of hydration when a patient has a fever.

Advanced Usage

• "Hydration shell": In chemistry and biochemistry, this refers to a layer of water molecules that surrounds and is bound to a solute particle, such as an ion or a protein molecule.
  • The hydration shell around sodium ions influences their movement through cell membranes.
• "Oral rehydration therapy (ORT)": A medical treatment for dehydration that involves drinking a solution of salts and sugars.
  • Oral rehydration therapy is a lifesaving intervention for severe diarrhea.

Variants and Related Words

• Hydrate (verb): To combine chemically with water; or to supply water to something.
  • It is important to hydrate well before a long run.
• Hydrate (noun): A compound, typically a crystalline one, in which water molecules are chemically bound to another compound or an element.
  • Copper(II) sulfate pentahydrate is a common laboratory chemical.
• Hydrated (adjective): Combined chemically with water; or having absorbed adequate water.
  • Her skin looked healthy and hydrated.
• Dehydration (noun): The process of losing or removing water; the harmful loss of water from the body.
  • Symptoms of dehydration include dizziness and dry mouth.

Synonyms

• Fluid intake (for the physiological sense)
• Moisturization (specifically for skin)
• Addition of water (general)

Antonyms

• Dehydration
• Desiccation
• Drying

Related Phrases

• "Maintain hydration": To keep a consistent and adequate level of water in the body.
  • During the heatwave, it was difficult to maintain hydration.
• "Hydration status": The current level of body water content, often assessed medically.
  • The nurse checked the patient's hydration status.

Noun

1. the process of combining with water; usually reversible