Definition

In a way that does not need oxygen, often referring to certain biological processes.

Example

Some bacteria can live and grow anaerobically, thriving without oxygen.

Conversation

Did you know that our bodies can work anaerobically during intense exercise?

Really? I always thought we needed oxygen for everything.

Well, it turns out that for short bursts of effort, we can function without it.

That's pretty cool! I guess that's why sprinting feels so different from jogging.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Anaerobically → It is formed from "ana-" (meaning without) and "aerobios" (from Greek, meaning life in air) and the suffix "-ically" (meaning in a manner). The word describes processes that occur without the presence of air or oxygen.

Memory Tip

Think of 'without air' ('ana-') and 'life' ('aerobios') to remember that 'anaerobically' refers to processes that happen without oxygen.

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