hypotonic

hypotonic /hy·po·ton·ic/ (-ton´ik)

1. denoting decreased tone or tension.

2. denoting a solution having less osmotic pressure than one with which it is compared.

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hy·po·ton·ic (hp-tnk)

adj.

1. Having less than normal tone or tension, as of muscles or arteries.

2. Having a lower osmotic pressure than a reference solution.

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hypo·to·nici·ty (-t-ns-t) n.

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hypotonic

[hī′pōton′ik]

Etymology: Gk, hypo, under, tonos, stretching

1  adj, pertaining to a lower or lessened tone or tension in any body structure, as in paralysis.

2  n, a solution having a lower concentration of solute than another solution, hence exerting less osmotic pressure than that solution.

3  adj, pertaining to a solution that causes cells to swell. Compare hypertonic, isotonic.

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hypotonic (hī´pōton´ik),

adj exhibiting less tension or firmness.

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hypotonic

1. having an abnormally reduced tonicity or tension.

2. having an osmotic pressure lower than that of the solution with which it is compared.

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hypotonic dehydration

occurs when there is secretory loss of sodium from the intestinal epithelium, e.g. salmonellosis, in osmolar excess of the concurrent fluid loss. See also dehydration.