What does the term "anhydrous" mean in the context of anhydrous ammonia?

In the context of anhydrous ammonia, the term "anhydrous" specifically means "without water." The prefix "an-" indicates the absence of something, while "hydrous" relates to water. Therefore, when ammonia is described as anhydrous, it refers to its chemical form that does not contain any water molecules. This is particularly important in agricultural and industrial applications, where anhydrous ammonia is used as a fertilizer and a refrigerant, requiring a completely water-free state for optimal effectiveness and stability. Understanding this definition is crucial for those working with ammonia and for ensuring proper handling and safety measures in environments where this chemical is utilized.