Asphyxiation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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asphyxiation
[əsˌfɪk.siˈeɪʃən ]
Definitions
cause of death
Asphyxiation is a condition of severely deficient supply of oxygen to the body that arises from abnormal breathing. It can cause unconsciousness or death if not corrected promptly.
Synonyms
choking, strangulation, suffocation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| asphyxiation |
Used in medical or formal contexts to describe a condition where a person is deprived of oxygen, leading to unconsciousness or death.
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| suffocation |
Refers to a condition where breathing is impaired due to an obstruction or lack of air, and is commonly used in everyday language.
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| strangulation |
Used to describe situations where the neck is compressed, often by hands or a ligature, limiting airflow or blood flow. It has a negative, violent connotation.
|
| choking |
Used in everyday situations to refer to the obstruction of the airway, often by swallowing something that gets stuck in the throat.
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Examples of usage
- She died of asphyxiation due to carbon monoxide poisoning.
- The cause of death was determined to be asphyxiation.
- If a person is in a poorly ventilated area, they may be at risk of asphyxiation.
medical emergency
Asphyxiation is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention to restore normal breathing and oxygen supply.
Synonyms
choking, strangulation, suffocation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| asphyxiation |
Typically used in a medical or technical context to describe the condition of being deprived of oxygen, leading to unconsciousness or death.
|
| suffocation |
Refers to the act of being deprived of air or unable to breathe, often used in both accidental and intentional scenarios. It can cover a broader range of situations compared to 'asphyxiation'.
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| strangulation |
Used mainly in a violent or criminal context to describe the act of severely constricting the neck, leading to asphyxia. It carries a negative connotation due to its association with violence.
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| choking |
Often used in everyday language to describe the act of having an airway blocked, usually by food or a foreign object, causing difficulty in breathing.
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Examples of usage
- The first aid training included techniques to prevent asphyxiation.
- Prompt action is crucial in cases of asphyxiation.
- The signs of asphyxiation should not be ignored.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Medical Knowledge
- Asphyxiation can occur from choking, drowning, or breathing in harmful gases, blocking oxygen from reaching the lungs.
- Loss of consciousness can happen in just a few seconds without oxygen, leading to brain damage if not corrected quickly.
- In cases of asphyxiation due to choking, the Heimlich maneuver can help dislodge objects blocking the airway.
Pop Culture
- Many horror films use asphyxiation as a plot device, creating tension and fear, illustrating its life-threatening nature.
- Songs and literature sometimes explore themes of suffocation, using it as a metaphor for feeling trapped or unable to express oneself.
Psychology
- Some experiences related to asphyxiation lead to trauma, which can cause anxiety or phobias about choking or being unable to breathe.
- Research indicates that trauma from asphyxiation events can lead to long-term impacts on mental health, including PTSD.
Environmental Science
- Air pollution can lead to conditions that mimic asphyxiation, as harmful particles can restrict airflow and reduce oxygen availability.
- Certain gases, like carbon monoxide, can cause asphyxiation even in high concentrations without immediately noticeable symptoms.
Origin of 'asphyxiation'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from Greek, where 'a-' means 'without' and 'sphyxis' means 'pulse', indicating a lack of breathing.
- It started being used in English around the 17th century, originally referring to near suffocation or choking.
The word 'asphyxiation' originates from the Greek word 'asphyxia', which means stopping of the pulse. It has been used in the English language since the mid-18th century. Cases of asphyxiation have been documented throughout history, often associated with accidental deaths or suicides.