Anaerobe Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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anaerobe

[หŒรฆnษ™หˆroสŠb ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

biology, microbiology

An anaerobe is an organism that does not require oxygen for growth and reproduction. These organisms can live in environments devoid of oxygen and may even find oxygen toxic. Anaerobes are commonly found in diverse habitats such as deep-sea sediments, the intestines of animals, and other anoxic environments.

Synonyms

anaerobic organism, bacterium, microbe.

Examples of usage

  • Bacteria in the human gut are often anaerobes.
  • Certain anaerobes play crucial roles in digestion.
  • Anaerobic fermentation is utilized in producing yogurt.
  • Some anaerobes are responsible for food spoilage.
  • Anaerobes can be used in bioremediation processes.

Translations

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Origin of 'anaerobe'

The term 'anaerobe' originated from the International Scientific Vocabulary, combining the prefix 'an-', derived from the Greek word 'แผ€ฮฝฮฌ' meaning 'without', and 'aerobe', which itself is based on the Greek word 'แผ€ฮฎฯ' (aฤ“r), meaning air. This composition indicates 'without air' or 'without oxygen'. The usage of the word can be traced back to the early 20th century when microbiologists began to classify organisms based on their oxygen requirements. The study of anaerobic organisms has been crucial in understanding ecological systems, human health, and industrial processes. As microbiology advanced, the significance of anaerobes in various ecosystems and their potential applications in biotechnology became more recognized, particularly in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental management.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,108, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.