Definition

The process of removing oxygen from a substance or environment.

Example

Deoxygenation of the water can lead to harmful effects on aquatic life.

Conversation

I just read about deoxygenation in the ocean and how it affects marine life.

That sounds interesting! How does it impact the fish?

Well, less oxygen means fish can struggle to survive in some areas.

Wow, I didn’t realize it was such a big issue for them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Deoxygenation → It is formed from "de-" (meaning removal or reversal) and "oxygen" (from Greek "oxus" meaning sharp or acid, and "genes" meaning born of or produced by). The word describes the process of removing oxygen from a substance.

Memory Tip

Think of 'removing' ('de-') 'oxygen' from something — that's what deoxygenation means.

Visually Confused Words