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.
The particles are smaller than a strand of human hair and can enter one's respiratory system. — Julia Gomez, USA Today, 28 July 2026 The paper eliminates a popular theory as to why insects can’t live in oceans—namely that their respiratory systems would implode under deep-sea pressure. — Mary Randolph, Scientific American, 23 July 2026 The water is said to soothe pathologies of the respiratory system, treat rheumatic complaints and aid motor rehabilitation. — Rebecca Ann Hughes, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026 VO2 max reflects the maximum ability of your cardiovascular and respiratory systems to deliver oxygen to your exercising skeletal muscles. — Teresa Maalouf, Verywell Health, 26 June 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

Rhymes for respiratory system

See All Rhymes for respiratory system

Browse Nearby Words

respiratory syncytial virus
respiratory system
respiratory tract
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Respiratory system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respiratory%20system. Accessed 1 Aug. 2026.

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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

More from Merriam-Webster on respiratory system

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about respiratory system

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