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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Participants performed treadmill tests to assess what’s known as cardiorespiratory fitness, or how easily the circulatory and respiratory systems can supply oxygen to muscles during physical exertion. Lisa Rapaport, EverydayHealth.com, 16 Oct. 2024 However, indoor mold can irritate your respiratory system. Sarah Hudgens, Health, 4 Oct. 2024 These items will keep mold spores from getting on your hands or into your respiratory system or eyes. Rabekah Henderson, Southern Living, 27 Sep. 2024 Early-stage lung cancer typically impacts how your respiratory system—a.k.a. Julia Sullivan, SELF, 25 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for respiratory system 

Word History

First Known Use

1811, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of respiratory system was in 1811

Dictionary Entries Near respiratory system

Cite this Entry

“Respiratory system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respiratory%20system. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on respiratory system

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!