Definition
noun , plural: solutes
(chemistry)
1. a component of a solution: in a solution, the dissolving substance is called a solvent whereas the dissolved substance is called a solute
2. a substance (usually in lesser amount) dissolved in another substance. A typical example of a solution is sugar dissolved in water: sugar is the solute and water is the solvent.
Supplement
Word origin: from Latin solūtus, past participle of solvere, meaning to loosen
See also: solution, solvent.
Dictionary > Solute