what is an electrolyte?

a substance allows the passage of electric current in solution or molten state

Electrolyte refers to the substance, which in fused state or in aqueous state conducts electricity. An electrolyte when dissolved in water dissociates into ions which makes it electrically conductive. In simple terms, the motion of ions furnished by the dissociation of an electrolyte cause the flow of electricity. For example NaCl, KCl, NaOH etc.