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

• 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

The ventilator is typically used to help people who have conditions that can affect the respiratory system, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), neuromuscular conditions like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or restrictive thoracic disorders. —Chantelle Lee, TIME, 11 July 2024

Beta blockers work by blocking beta receptors, which are found mostly in your heart, kidneys, blood vessels, and respiratory system. —Femi Aremu, Verywell Health, 1 July 2024

The microplastic fibers have entered the food chain, are in our drinking water and enter our respiratory systems. —Catherine Salfino, Sourcing Journal, 3 Sep. 2019

Nearly 200 muscles, from the respiratory system to the embouchure, must work seamlessly together. —Paul Keegan, Hartford Courant, 11 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1811, in the meaning defined above

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