Cathodic is a term often used in the field of electrochemistry and refers to the negatively charged electrode in an electrical circuit. There are various synonyms for this term such as reducing, anionic and negative electrode. Other related terms include cathode, cathodic protection, cathodic reduction, and cathodoluminescence, which all refer to different aspects of the chemical and physical processes associated with the cathode. In the contexts of batteries, fuel cells and electrolysis, the cathode plays a critical role in the flow of electrons and ions, and it is important to use appropriate terminology to convey the correct meaning.