apnoea
UK[æpˈniːə]US[æpˈniːə]
n
a temporary cessation of breathing, especially during sleep.
Morpheme Breakdown
a
pnoe
a
a
without
pnoe
breath
a
noun suffix
Etymology
the word apnoea is a modern medical term taken directly from greek. it is constructed from the greek prefix 'a-' meaning 'without', combined with 'pnoia', a derivative of 'pnein' meaning 'to breathe'. the final '-a' is a typical greek noun ending. the literal greek meaning, "absence of breath," has been preserved precisely in its modern english usage to describe a temporary stoppage of breathing. this term entered english via new latin in the 17th century, maintaining its classical form and specialized medical sense.
Analysis
Structure: a (without) + pnoe (breath) + a (noun suffix)
a: greek origin, a prefix meaning "without" or "not".
pnoe: greek origin, from the root meaning "breath" or "breathing".
a: greek origin, a noun-forming suffix.
Examples
sleep apnoea is a common disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing during the night.
the diver experienced a brief period of apnoea as he submerged.
the doctor diagnosed the infant with central apnoea, requiring careful monitoring.