res·pi·ra·to·ry \ˈresp(ə)rəˌtōrē, ÷ˈrespəˌt- (by r-dissimilation), -tȯr-, -ri also rə̇ˈspīrəˌ- or rēˈspīrəˌ- sometimes (ˈ)re|spīrəˌ-\adjective Etymology: Late Latin respiratorius, from Latin respiratus (past participle of respirare to breathe) + -orius -ory — more at respire : of or relating to respiration < respiratory function > : serving for or functioning in respiration < respiratory organs > < respiratory nerves >