Definition

A type of organism that can survive and grow without oxygen in its environment.

Example

Some bacteria are anaerobes and thrive in environments like deep soil or the intestines of animals.

Conversation

Did you know that some bacteria are classified as anaerobe organisms?

Really? I thought all bacteria needed oxygen to survive.

Nope, anaerobe bacteria can thrive without it, which is pretty fascinating.

That's interesting! I guess nature has its own ways of adapting.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Anaerobe is formed from "ana-" (meaning without) and "erobe" (from Greek "aerobios", meaning living in air). The word describes organisms that live without air or oxygen.

Memory Tip

Think of 'without' ('ana-') and 'air' ('erobe') to remember that an anaerobe is an organism that can live without air.

Visually Confused Words