# respiratory

/ˈɹɛspɝəˌtɔɹi/ (US) · /ɹɪspˈɪɹətəɹˌi/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/respiratory
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

relating to breathing or the organs in your body that help you breathe. You use this word when talking about your lungs and how you take in air.

For teachers: relating to or affecting the organs and processes involved in breathing. Frequently used in medical contexts to describe diseases, systems, or physiological functions.

## Examples

- Smoking can cause serious respiratory problems.
- The doctor checked his respiratory rate to see how well his lungs were functioning after the exercise.
- Chronic exposure to industrial pollutants can lead to severe respiratory distress, as the delicate tissues of the lungs become inflamed and less efficient at oxygen exchange.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as an attributive adjective, appearing before the noun it modifies.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.