electrolysis

Etymology

Coined by English polymath William Whewell in 1834 for Michael Faraday. From electro- + -lysis (“a loosening”). Originally of tumors, later (1909) of hair removal.

noun

1. (chemistry) the chemical change produced by passing an electric current through a conducting solution or a molten salt.
   But current leakage in a Tube tunnel can cause electrolysis to occur in steel retaining walls, which in turn causes them to rust; it could also damage the foundations of nearby buildings. 2012, Andrew Martin, Underground Overground: A passenger's history of the Tube, Profile Books, page 136
2. The destruction of hair roots by means of an electric current.