Answer:
The number of electrons an atom has relative to a neutral atom of the same element
Explanation:
the oxidation state is a number that indicates the ability to give or receive electrons. This number usually has a sign, which can be positive or negative.
If the oxidation state is a positive number, it means that this atom has the ability to receive such an amount of electrons. If the oxidation state is negative, the element can give that amount of electrons.