ionic
UK[aɪˈɒnɪk]US[aɪˈɑːnɪk]
adj
Relating to, composed of, or using ions.
adj
Relating to or denoting a classical order of architecture characterized by a column with scroll-shaped ornaments on the capital.
Morpheme Breakdown
ion
ic
ion
particle
ic
adjective suffix
Etymology
The word 'ionic' is built upon the modern scientific term 'ion', coined by English scientist Michael Faraday in 1834 from the Greek neuter present participle 'ion' (ἰόν), meaning "going". This was chosen because ions move toward oppositely charged electrodes. The adjectival suffix '-ic', from Latin '-icus' and Greek '-ikos', is a common formative meaning "pertaining to". Thus, 'ionic' literally means "pertaining to ions". The architectural term 'Ionic' shares the same suffix but derives from 'Ionia', the ancient Greek region where the style originated, demonstrating how identical English forms can have distinct historical lineages.
Analysis
Structure: ion (particle) + ic (adjective suffix)
- ion: From Greek, via English 'ion', meaning "going" or "thing that goes". In this word, it refers to an electrically charged particle.
- ic: A suffix of Greek and Latin origin used to form adjectives meaning "of, pertaining to, or characteristic of".
Examples
Sodium chloride forms an ionic bond between sodium and chloride ions.
The ionic columns of the ancient temple were elegantly carved.
The solution's conductivity depends on its ionic strength.