dialyses Definition

dialysis
noun dialyses

1. chem.
The separation of particles of different sizes in a solution, based on the different rates at which the various substances diffuse through a semi-permeable membrane, mainly used to separate large particles such as proteins from soluble substances such as salts.
2. medicine.
The removal of toxic substances from the blood by diffusion through a semi-permeable membrane in an artificial kidney machine, used in cases of kidney failure when a transplant is not available. Also called haemodialysis.

Etymology: 16c: Greek, meaning ‘separation'.