respiratory system

noun

: a system of organs functioning in respiration and in humans consisting especially of the nose, nasal passages, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs : respiratory tract

Illustration of respiratory system

• 1 nostril
• 2 nose
• 3 nasal cavity
• 4 nasopharynx
• 5 oropharynx
• 6 larynx
• 7 trachea
• 8 bronchus
• 9 lung

Examples of respiratory system in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Ensure Good Ventilation and Wear a Mask Ammonia produces strong fumes that can irritate the mouth, throat, and respiratory system. —Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Jan. 2025

The combination forms a toxic gas that can damage the respiratory system. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 21 Jan. 2025

That will help prevent spores from getting in your eyes or in your respiratory system. —Bridget Reed Morawski, Architectural Digest, 14 Jan. 2025

Wildfire smoke contains fine particulates that can irritate respiratory systems, the EPA says. —George Petras, USA TODAY, 8 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1811, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

respiratory system

noun

: a system of organs used in breathing that in human beings consists of the nose, nasal passages, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi and lungs

Medical Definition

respiratory system

noun

: a system of organs functioning in respiration and in humans consisting especially of the nose, nasal passages, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs : respiratory tract