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noun

asphyxia

az-FIHK-see-uh
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Asphyxia (noun) means a dangerous medical condition caused by a lack of oxygen reaching the body's tissues, which can lead to unconsciousness or death. Example: “The firefighters were treated for smoke-related asphyxia.”

noun
1
A dangerous medical condition caused by a lack of oxygen reaching the body's tissues, which can lead to unconsciousness or death.
"The firefighters were treated for smoke-related asphyxia."
"Asphyxia can result from choking, drowning, or breathing in toxic gas."

How to use asphyxia

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA medical emergency where the body is starved of oxygen, often from choking, drowning, or smoke inhalation.

Common mistake

Asphyxia is the medical condition itself; asphyxiation is the act or process of causing it.

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Word forms

Plural
asphyxias
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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The firefighters were treated for smoke-related _____.

Etymology

Borrowed from Ancient Greek, literally meaning "stopping of the pulse."

Origin: Ancient Greek

Rhymes for asphyxia

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Frequently asked questions

What does “asphyxia” mean?
The word “asphyxia” means a dangerous medical condition caused by a lack of oxygen reaching the body's tissues, which can lead to unconsciousness or death. In plain terms, a medical emergency where the body is starved of oxygen, often from choking, drowning, or smoke inhalation.
How do you pronounce “asphyxia”?
“Asphyxia” is pronounced az-FIHK-see-uh (/æzˈfɪksiə/ in IPA).
How do you use “asphyxia” in a sentence?
Here is “asphyxia” used in a sentence: “The firefighters were treated for smoke-related asphyxia.”
What part of speech is “asphyxia”?
“Asphyxia” is a noun.
Where does the word “asphyxia” come from?
The word “asphyxia” comes from Ancient Greek. Borrowed from Ancient Greek, literally meaning "stopping of the pulse.".

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