a-, an- +
(Greek: a prefix meaning: no, absence of, without, lack of, not)
These prefixes are normally used with elements of Greek origin, a- is used before consonants and an- is used before vowels.
It affects the meanings of hundreds of words.
There are too many words that use these prefix elements to list all of them on this site; however, there are significant examples listed in this and the other units where they exist.
anacoustic
A situation in which sound cannot be transmitted.
anadenia
Absence of glands or abeyance of glandular functions.
anaerobic
1. Having to do with or occurring in the absence of atmospheric oxygen or air.
2. Relating to living or growing where there is no atmospheric oxygen.
Anaerobic bacteria get their oxygen by decomposing compounds containing oxygen.
anaerophyte
A plant that grows without air.
anaeroplasty
Treatment of wounds by exclusion of air.
analgesia
A state in which painful stimuli are so moderated that, though still perceived, they are no longer painful; feeling no pain.
analgesic
A drug or remedy that relieves pain; such as, aspirin, etc.
analphabetic
Not able to read or to write.
anandria
An absence of masculinity.
ananthous
1. In botany, having no flowers.
2. Lacking flowers.
anaphrodisia
1. Repressing or destroying sexual desire.
2. A decline or absence of sexual desire.
3. Diminished sexual desire.
anaphrodisiac
1. Something which decreases sexual desires.
2. Tending to diminish sexual desire.
3. A chemical that inhibits sexual response.
4. Repressing or destroying sexual desire.
anarchic
1. Showing no respect for established laws, rules, institutions, or authority.
2. Characterized by a lack of organization or control.
3. Likely to cause the overthrow of a formal system of government or a breakdown of law and order.
anarchist
1. Someone who rejects the need for a system of government in society and proposes its abolition.
2. Any one who tries to overthrow a society’s formal system of government or behaves in a generally lawless manner and encourages others to do the same.
anarchy
1. The absence of any formal system of government in a society.
2. A situation in which there is a total lack of organization or control.
3. Political disorder and violence; lawlessness.
4. Disorder in any sphere of activity.
When the rich assemble to concern themselves with the business of the poor, it is called charity. When the poor assemble to concern themselves with the business of the rich, it is called anarchy.
—Paul Richard
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