respirator

American  

[res-puh-rey-ter] / ˈrɛs pəˌreɪ tər /

noun

1. a masklike device, usually of nonwoven fibrous materials, as fiberglass paper, wool felt, or polypropylene, worn over the mouth, or nose and mouth, to prevent the inhalation of noxious substances, pathogens, or the like.

   Respirators are essential protective equipment for healthcare providers during an outbreak.

2. Medicine/Medical. ventilator.

3. British. gas mask.

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respirator British  

/ ˈrɛspəˌreɪtə /

noun

1. an apparatus for providing long-term artificial respiration

2. Also called: gas mask.  a device worn over the mouth and nose to prevent inhalation of noxious fumes or to warm cold air before it is breathed

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Etymology

Origin of respirator

First recorded in 1835–40; from Latin respīrāt(us), past participle of respīrāre “to recover one's breath” + -or agent suffix; see origin at respire, -or ²

Compare meaning

How does respirator compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• ventilator vs. respirator

Explanation

A respirator is a device you use to help you breathe, either for a medical reason or to filter out dust, gas, or anything else too nasty to inhale. Whether you're scraping lead paint off a wall or spray painting a car, you'll want to wear a respirator. Military members and police officers sometimes use respirators known as "gas masks" to protect themselves from fumes emitted during wars and riots. Some respirators simply purify the air that moves through them, while others, like those used in hospitals, provide oxygen. The Latin root of respirator is respirare, "breathe in and out."

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

respirator

Health Canada recommends detailed screening and assessment protocols along with extensive protective equipment, including a fit-tested N95 respirator, face shield, gloves, and fluid-impermeable clothing.

From Science Daily ● Jun. 22, 2026

In Chiang Mai, doctor Thanakrit Im-iam was wearing a heavy-duty respirator to protect himself.

From Barron's ● Apr. 3, 2026

He was resuscitated by emergency services and taken to a hospital, where he was on life support for a couple of days before being taken off the respirator, according to the post.

From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 2, 2025

This reluctance to think outside the TB box has resulted in people resisting the sensible use of respirator masks in health care settings.

From Salon ● Feb. 21, 2025

He showed up at Room H moments later, wearing a respirator, to find out what was going on.

From "The Hot Zone" by Richard Preston