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.
Birds have delicate respiratory systems that can be disrupted by strong chemicals. Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 5 Feb. 2026 Always wear a face mask to prevent fine ash particles from entering your respiratory system. Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 3 Feb. 2026 If left untreated, hypothermia can cause heart and respiratory system failure, and eventually death. Alexis Simmerman, Austin American Statesman, 26 Jan. 2026 Eventually, the cardiac and respiratory systems could fail and lead to death. Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 26 Jan. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Respiratory system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respiratory%20system. Accessed 7 Feb. 2026.

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

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