asphyxia
UK: æsˈfɪk.si.ə | US: æsˈfɪk.si.ə
n. a condition arising when the body is deprived of oxygen, leading to unconsciousness or death.
n. (figuratively) a stifling or oppressive atmosphere.
asphyxia = a<without> + sphyx<pulse> + ia<condition>
- a<without>: Greek prefix "a-" denoting absence or negation.
- sphyx<pulse>: From Greek "sphyxis" (pulse, heartbeat).
- ia<condition>: Greek suffix indicating a state or condition.
Etymology Origin:
The word "asphyxia" originates from Greek "asphyxia," literally meaning "stopping of the pulse." It combines "a-" (without) + "sphyxis" (pulse), reflecting the medical consequence of oxygen deprivation—cessation of heartbeat. Over time, it broadened to describe suffocation or oppressive stagnation metaphorically.
The diver experienced asphyxia after his oxygen tank malfunctioned.
Carbon monoxide poisoning can lead to fatal asphyxia.
The room’s lack of ventilation created a sense of asphyxia.
Rescue teams treated the fire victims for smoke-induced asphyxia.
Political censorship creates intellectual asphyxia in society.