Asphyxia – Definition & Meaning

Asphyxia is a medical condition that occurs when the body is deprived of oxygen. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including drowning, choking, suffocation, and carbon monoxide poisoning. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of asphyxia, as well as its origin, associations, synonyms, and antonyms.

Definitions

Asphyxia is defined as a condition in which the body is deprived of oxygen, leading to unconsciousness or death. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including drowning, choking, suffocation, and carbon monoxide poisoning. The symptoms of asphyxia can include shortness of breath, dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness.

Origin

The word asphyxia comes from the Greek words “a-” (not) and “sphyzein” (to throb). It was first used in the medical sense in the 17th century to describe a condition in which the body was deprived of air.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, asphyxia is “a lack of oxygen or excess of carbon dioxide in the body that results in unconsciousness and often death.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “the condition of being deprived of oxygen, causing unconsciousness or death.”

Associations

Asphyxia is often associated with drowning, choking, suffocation, and carbon monoxide poisoning. It can also be caused by other factors, such as a heart attack, stroke, or severe asthma attack.

Synonyms

Synonyms for asphyxia include suffocation, strangulation, smothering, and choking.

Antonyms

Antonyms for asphyxia include respiration, breathing, and oxygenation.

The same root words

Other words that share the same root as asphyxia include sphygmomanometer (a device used to measure blood pressure), sphygmography (the recording of pulse waves), and sphygmus (a pulse or throb).

Example Sentences

1. The victim was found unconscious due to asphyxia caused by carbon monoxide poisoning.
2. The doctor performed CPR to revive the patient who had suffered from asphyxia.
3. The baby was saved from asphyxia when the mother performed the Heimlich maneuver on him.