oxygen debt

American  

noun

Physiology.

1. the body's oxygen deficiency resulting from strenuous physical activity.

---

Etymology

Origin of oxygen debt

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

This relationship suggests the seals may be repaying a lingering oxygen debt accumulated during diving and hunting trips.

From Science Daily • May 9, 2026

Initially it was thought that this energy, which we call “excess postexercise oxygen consumption,” was a replacement for oxygen debt.

From Scientific American • Nov. 24, 2021

They throw themselves over the boards, skate themselves into oxygen debt, then sit down and watch their sweat freeze.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 13, 2016

An oxygen debt is created as a result of muscle use.

From Textbooks • Jun. 19, 2013

"I believe it would be an asset for the game because they do get into oxygen debt and then struggle to make good decisions."

From The Guardian • Dec. 2, 2010