respirator

[ res-puh-rey-ter ]

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 ( def 3 ).
3. British. gas mask.

respirator

/ ˈrɛspəˌreɪtə /

noun

1. an apparatus for providing long-term artificial respiration
2. Also calledgas mask a device worn over the mouth and nose to prevent inhalation of noxious fumes or to warm cold air before it is breathed

Word History and Origins

Origin of respirator¹

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

Example Sentences

As they held a news conference by the river Wednesday, Davidson and others wore respirators to protect themselves from the air pollution.

From Los Angeles Times

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

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

The gardeners — who wore N95 masks, goggles and in some cases respirators — worked methodically.

From Los Angeles Times

The cleanup begins in the burn zone with EPA contractors in respirators, white suits and hard hats sifting through the rubble of homes and businesses.

From Los Angeles Times