respirable

adjective

re·​spi·​ra·​ble ˈre-sp(ə-)rə-bəl How to pronounce respirable (audio) ri-ˈspī-rə- How to pronounce respirable (audio)
: fit for breathing
also : capable of being taken in by breathing
respirable particles of ash

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web At concrete batch plants, respirable crystalline silica can come from cement and fly ash, a powder used in producing cement. Elena Bruess, San Antonio Express-News, 17 Sep. 2021 Although last year with the rule in effect, government reports indicated that respirable dust levels fell to historic lows. Megan Geuss, Ars Technica, 25 Feb. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'respirable.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

First Known Use

1779, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of respirable was in 1779

Dictionary Entries Near respirable

Cite this Entry

“Respirable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respirable. Accessed 28 Mar. 2023.

Medical Definition

respirable

adjective
re·​spi·​ra·​ble ˈres-p(ə-)rə-bəl How to pronounce respirable (audio) ri-ˈspī-rə- How to pronounce respirable (audio)
1
: fit for breathing
respirable air
2
: capable of being taken in by breathing
respirable particles of ash
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