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 buildup of free radicals, called oxidative stress, has been linked to cancer as well as diseases that affect the heart, kidney, brain and respiratory system, according to the Cleveland Clinic. —Adrianna Rodriguez, USA TODAY, 6 Feb. 2025

The effects of air pollution on human health, specifically cardiovascular and respiratory systems, are well known. —Stephanie Edwards, Discover Magazine, 6 Feb. 2025

Left untreated, hypothermia can cause the heart and respiratory system to fail and eventually can lead to death. —Barbara A. Perry, Newsweek, 27 Jan. 2025

Both are abrasive particles with sharp edges that can irritate eyes, respiratory systems and skin. —John Yoo and John Shu, Newsweek, 23 Jan. 2025

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