Hypertonic solution

Definition
noun
A solution that has higher osmotic pressure (or has more solutes) than another solution to which it is compared.
Supplement
When a cell’s cytoplasm is bathed in a hypertonic solution the water will be drawn out of the cell and into the solution by osmosis. If water molecules continue to diffuse out of the cell, it will cause the cell to shrink.
Compare: hypotonic solution.

See also: solute, solvent.