English · Body & Health
oxygen
/ˈɒk.sɪ.dʒən/
[/ˈɒk.sɪ.dʒən/]
breathable gas
Beginnernoun
Definition
A colorless gas that makes up part of the air and is essential for most living things to breathe and survive.
Example
At high altitude the thin air contains less oxygen, so climbers often carry extra tanks.
At high altitude the thin air contains less oxygen, so climbers often carry extra tanks.
Etymology
Coined in 1777 by Lavoisier from Greek 'oxys' (sharp, acid) and '-genes' (forming), as he believed it formed acids.
How & Where It’s Used
Used in medicine, chemistry, and everyday talk about breathing and air quality.