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.
Adding moisture to the air feels so good for the skin and respiratory system. Hannah Rice, Rolling Stone, 27 Nov. 2024 Nasal passages also humidify the air, which is better for the respiratory system. Matt Fuchs, TIME, 22 Nov. 2024 When burning scented candles, do so in small doses to avoid headaches or irritation of the respiratory system or eyes. Kristen Rogers, CNN, 29 Nov. 2024 Sulfur dioxide, a toxic gas emitted during volcanic eruptions, can irritate the respiratory system, the eyes and skin, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Ty Roush, Forbes, 21 Nov. 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 25 Dec. 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!