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

Their respiratory system consists of spiracles and branching tracheal tubes that deliver oxygen directly throughout the body. —Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026

Hydrogen sulfide, a gas commonly associated with sewage, can irritate the eyes and respiratory system and in higher concentrations may cause more serious health effects, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. —Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 10 May 2026

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

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