anoxia

American  

[an-ok-see-uh, uh-nok-] / ænˈɒk si ə, əˈnɒk- /

noun

1. Biology. the absence of oxygen, as in an organic environment.

   the simulation of aquatic anoxia in the laboratory.

2. Pathology. the absence or near absence of oxygen in the body tissues; severe hypoxia.

   Metabolism came to an irreversible standstill during prolonged anoxia.

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anoxia British  

/ ænˈɒksɪə /

noun

1. lack or absence of oxygen

2. a deficiency of oxygen in tissues and organs Compare hypoxia

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Other Word Forms

• anoxic adjective

Etymology

Origin of anoxia

First recorded in 1930–35; an- ¹ + ox(ygen) + -ia

Compare meaning

How does anoxia compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• hypoxia vs. anoxia

Example Sentences

This summer, workers removed large masses of algae from the lagoon to help prevent anoxia.

From Science Magazine • Sep. 29, 2022

And death occurs within a few hours from anoxia, or lack of oxygen.

From The New Yorker • Jan. 3, 2017

Much of the improvement in breath-holding is attributable to the mental side of things: relaxation and meditation techniques, and the confidence that comes with understanding the mechanisms behind surviving anoxia.

From Slate • Nov. 18, 2013

These factors include parasympathetic stimulation, elevated or decreased potassium ion levels, decreased calcium levels, anoxia, and acidosis.

From Textbooks • Jun. 19, 2013

Death occurs within a Few hours from anoxia, or lack of oxygen.

From "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson