Pronunciation: [wɪðˌa͡ʊt lˈa͡ɪf] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the term "without life" is /wɪðaʊt laɪf/. This term refers to an absence of life or vitality. The first syllable 'with' is pronounced as /wɪð/ and means 'in absence of'. The second syllable "out" signifies the negation of the word "life", pronounced as /laɪf/. Therefore, it means 'in the absence of life'. The correct spelling is important to effectively communicate the intended meaning of the term.
Without life refers to a state or condition in which an entity or organism does not possess or exhibit the attributes associated with vitality, consciousness, or biological function. This term typically applies to organisms, objects, or environments that lack any form of living being or living systems.
An organism or entity categorized as "without life" is typically devoid of the fundamental characteristics of life, such as metabolism, growth, reproduction, responsiveness to stimuli, or the ability to evolve. It lacks the capacity for respiration, circulation, digestion, and any other biological activities that are essential for the sustenance and continuation of life.
This term can be applied to inanimate objects or non-living matter, indicating that they do not possess any inherent life force or animate properties. Such objects are incapable of independent motion or autonomous actions associated with living organisms. However, one must be cautious as certain objects may possess traits resembling life, such as familiar signs of movement, but do not possess the necessary biological functions or systems to be considered living.
Similarly, environments or habitats can be described as "without life" if they do not support or contain any living organisms. Such areas may lack the necessary resources, such as water, oxygen, sunlight, or nutrients, which are crucial for the survival of living organisms. These lifeless environments can include deserts, frozen landscapes, or sterile laboratory conditions.
The etymology of the phrase "without life" can be understood by examining the origins of its constituent words.
1. "Without" - This word can be traced back to Old English "wiðutan", which combines "wið" (against, away from) and "utan" (outside). It evolved over time to "without" in Middle English, retaining the meaning of being deprived of or lacking something.
2. "Life" - This term originates from the Old English word "līf", which is related to Old High German "līb" and Old Norse "lif". These roots ultimately come from the Proto-Germanic word "*libą", denoting "life" or "living".
When combined, the words "without" and "life" form the phrase "without life", indicating the absence or lack of living beings or vitality.
