respirator

noun

res·​pi·​ra·​tor ˈre-spə-ˌrā-tər 

plural respirators

1

: a mask or device worn over the mouth and nose to protect the respiratory system by filtering out dangerous substances (such as dusts, fumes, or bacteria) from inhaled air

Note: Particulate respirator masks are only able to filter out particles and are not effective against gases or vapors. A numerical rating (such as 95 or 99) is sometimes assigned to such a respirator to indicate the percentage of airborne particles filtered. A letter may also be assigned to indicate whether it is somewhat resistant (R), not resistant (NR), or strongly resistant (P) to the degrading effects of oil on proper respirator function.

2

: a device for maintaining artificial respiration : ventilator sense b

Examples of respirator in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

At the county’s other adult education center, in Clewiston, sparks fly as dozens of students in thick gloves and respirator masks work toward industrial certifications needed to enter the workforce. —Nick Fouriezos, Sun Sentinel, 17 June 2024

Workers can also wear protective respirators to prevent breathing in silica particles. —Devika Rao, theweek, 17 June 2024

That includes ensuring personal protective gear – such as face shields or goggles, respirator masks, rubber coveralls and boots – are available to workers on farms with infected animals. —Kristen Jordan Shamus, USA TODAY, 3 June 2024

Razer marketed the device as offering capabilities similar to those of an N95 respirator. —Scharon Harding, Ars Technica, 30 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1836, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

respirator

noun

res·​pi·​ra·​tor ˈres-pə-ˌrāt-ər 

1

: a device covering the mouth and nose especially to prevent the breathing in of harmful substances (as dust or fumes)

2

: a device used to maintain artificial respiration

Medical Definition

respirator

noun

res·​pi·​ra·​tor ˈres-pə-ˌrāt-ər 

1

: a mask or device worn over the mouth and nose to protect the respiratory system by filtering out dangerous substances (as dusts, chemical fumes, or bacteria) from inhaled air

Note: Particulate respirator masks are only able to filter out particles and are not effective against gases or vapors. A numerical rating (such as 95 or 99) is sometimes assigned to a particulate respirator to indicate the percentage of airborne particles filtered. A letter may also be assigned to indicate whether it is somewhat resistant (R), not resistant (NR), or strongly resistant (P) to the degrading effects of oil on proper respirator function.

2

: a device for maintaining artificial respiration : ventilator