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

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.
Methyl methacrylate can cause damage to the skin and respiratory system. — Stephanie Pappas, Scientific American, 28 May 2026 Further research is needed to determine whether blocking the protein is safe and effective within a live, complex human respiratory system. — Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 3 June 2026 Hydrogen peroxide can cause irritation to your skin and respiratory system, so ventilate the bathroom by opening a window, keeping the door open, or turning on a fan. — Maria Sabella, The Spruce, 25 June 2026 Their respiratory system consists of spiracles and branching tracheal tubes that deliver oxygen directly throughout the body. — Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026 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

Rhymes for respiratory system

See All Rhymes for respiratory system

Browse Nearby Words

respiratory syncytial virus
respiratory system
respiratory tract
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Respiratory system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respiratory%20system. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about respiratory system

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