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

That goes for muscle—but also for bones, the respiratory system, and the pelvic floor. — Laura Solla, Vogue, 3 Nov. 2026

When heated by the device’s coil, these liquids break down into toxic compounds, including formaldehyde and acrolein, both known to damage cellular structures in the respiratory system. — Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 25 Oct. 2026

And inside your respiratory system there isn’t any protective skin, so alpha radiation develops its full potential. — Glenn Zorpette, IEEE Spectrum, 15 Oct. 2026

Moreover, elderberries also offer comfort and support to the respiratory system in not only times of distress but also work to bolster its resistance and boost the immune system. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 4 Sep. 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