1. a substance or gas that causes asphyxiation by preventing oxygen from reaching the lungs or bloodstream
Usage: commonly used in industrial safety and toxicology contexts

1. causing or capable of causing asphyxiation

Examples

• Carbon monoxide is a dangerous asphyxiant that can be fatal in high concentrations.
• The factory workers were trained to recognize asphyxiant gases in the workplace.
• Nitrogen can act as an asphyxiant in enclosed spaces where oxygen levels drop.
• The safety manual listed several asphyxiant chemicals used in the manufacturing process.
• Inert gases like helium become asphyxiant when they displace breathable air.
• The company installed detectors to monitor for asphyxiant conditions in the storage area.