Anabiosis, pronounced /ænəbaɪˈoʊsɪs/, is a term used in biology to describe the temporary cessation of vital functions in an organism. The spelling of this word is derived from the Greek words "ana," meaning "up," and "biosis," meaning "life," combined with the Latin suffix "-osis" to indicate a pathological condition. Its pronunciation may be difficult for those unfamiliar with IPA transcription, but breaking it down into individual sounds (/æ/-/n/-/ə/-/baɪ/-/oʊ/-/sɪs/) can make it easier to recognize and remember in the future.
Anabiosis is a noun that refers to a state of suspended animation or temporary cessation of life processes, often induced artificially. It comes from the Greek words "ana" meaning "back" and "biosis" meaning "life." Anabiosis is typically associated with certain organisms' ability to enter a dormant state when faced with unfavorable conditions such as extreme temperatures or lack of water, enabling them to survive until more favorable conditions return.
In the field of medicine, anabiosis can also describe a phenomenon where an individual is resuscitated, revived, or brought back to life after being in a state of apparent death, usually through medical intervention. This can be achieved through techniques such as cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR), cardiopulmonary bypass (using a heart-lung machine), or inducing hypothermia.
The concept of anabiosis extends beyond the realm of biology and medicine. It is often used metaphorically to describe a state of temporary inactivity or suspension, where growth or progress is halted. For example, anabiosis can be used to refer to the pause or interruption in a project or initiative before it resumes.
Overall, anabiosis encompasses a range of meanings related to the temporary cessation or revival of life processes, whether in the realm of biology, medicine, or metaphorically in different contexts.
Resuscitation after apparent death.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "anabiosis" is derived from two Greek words: "ana" meaning "again" or "reversal", and "biosis" meaning "life". When combined, the term "anabiosis" refers to a state of suspended animation or suspended life, wherein an organism exhibits life-like characteristics after being seemingly dead or in a dormant state.