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

• 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

Mold exposure can trigger allergies, worsen asthma and irritate the respiratory system, particularly in children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems. —Ryan Brennan may 8, Kansas City Star, 8 May 2026

The condition typically occurs when the nervous and respiratory systems aren’t fully developed. —Kayla Grant, PEOPLE, 16 Apr. 2026

The class begins with teaching students relevant terminology and studying major internal systems like the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. —Molly Morrow, Chicago Tribune, 8 Apr. 2026

Volcanic tephra can irritate eyes, skin and the respiratory system, according to county officials. —ABC News, 10 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1811, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for respiratory system

• cryptosystem
• ecosystem
• intersystem
• multisystem
• photosystem
• subsystem

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