anaerobic
UK: ˌæn.eəˈrəʊ.bɪk | US: ˌæn.əˈroʊ.bɪk
adj. relating to or requiring the absence of oxygen
adj. (biology) occurring or living without oxygen
anaerobic = an<without> + aero<air> + bic<adjective suffix>
- an (Greek an-): A prefix meaning "without" or "not."
- aero (Greek aēr): Refers to "air" or "oxygen."
- bic (Latin -icus): An adjective-forming suffix indicating relation or pertaining to.
Etymology Origin:
The word "anaerobic" originates from Greek components. The prefix an- negates the root aero- (air/oxygen), combined with the suffix -bic to form an adjective. It was coined in the 19th century to describe biological processes (e.g., fermentation) that occur without oxygen, contrasting with aerobic (oxygen-dependent). The term reflects scientific classification of metabolic pathways.
Anaerobic bacteria thrive in environments devoid of oxygen.
High-intensity interval training includes anaerobic exercises like sprinting.
The decomposition of organic matter can be anaerobic in landfills.
Some microbes switch between aerobic and anaerobic respiration.
Anaerobic digestion is used to produce biogas from waste.