respiratory

Everyday

1. To do with breathing and the parts of the body we breathe with: the nose, windpipe and lungs. tree →
2. (medicine) Affecting the breathing system, like a respiratory infection. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons, the respiratory system is made of the nose, mouth, trachea (windpipe), bronchi and lungs; it takes in oxygen and gives out carbon dioxide. In health and the news, respiratory illnesses include colds, flu, asthma and Covid. Phrases: respiratory system, respiratory infection, respiratory problems, respiratory rate.

Examples

• The lungs are the main organs of the respiratory system. tree →
• A cold is a respiratory infection. tree →
• Smoking damages the respiratory system. tree →
• Asthma is a respiratory condition. tree →
• The doctor counted her respiratory rate — how many breaths a minute. tree →
• Fish have gills instead of lungs in their respiratory system. tree →

Note

Pronounced "RES-pi-ra-tree" (UK) or "RES-pruh-tor-ee" (US). From "respiration" (breathing; in science also the process cells use to release energy). Do not confuse respiration (in cells) with just breathing.