anaerobic

/ˌænəˈroʊbɪk/

Other forms: anaerobically

Anaerobic means "without oxygen." Anaerobic bacteria, unlike humans, don't need oxygen to survive.

Aerobic means "needing or using oxygen." Think about aerobic activity, also called "cardio," like running, biking, or yes, taking an aerobics class at your local gym. That heart-pumping exercise makes your lungs take in more oxygen to keep you moving. Anaerobic is the opposite of aerobic. It means "without oxygen." Weight lifting is called an anaerobic exercise, because it doesn't require additional oxygen.

Definitions of anaerobic

1. adjective

   not aerobic
   “isometric exercises are anaerobic”

   antonyms:

   aerobic

   based on or using the principles of aerobics; enhancing respiratory and circulatory efficiency
2. adjective

   living or active in the absence of free oxygen
   “anaerobic bacteria”

   synonyms: anaerobiotic

   antonyms:

   aerobic

   depending on free oxygen or air

   aerobiotic

   living or active only in the presence of oxygen

   oxidative

   taking place in the presence of oxygen