Respiration: meaning, definitions and examples

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respiration

 

[ˌrɛspɪˈreɪʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

biology

The process of breathing, which involves taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide from the body.

Synonyms

breathing, exhalation, inhalation.

Examples of usage

  • During respiration, the lungs take in oxygen from the air.
  • Cellular respiration is a key process in producing energy for the body.
  • Aquatic animals have adaptations for respiration in water.
Context #2 | Noun

physiology

The action of inhaling and exhaling air, also known as the respiratory process.

Synonyms

breathing, pulmonary function, ventilation.

Examples of usage

  • Respiration is controlled by the respiratory system.
  • Proper respiration is essential for maintaining good health.
Context #3 | Noun

botany

The process by which plants take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen during photosynthesis.

Synonyms

plant breathing, plant ventilation.

Examples of usage

  • Plant respiration occurs through small openings in the leaves.
  • The rate of plant respiration can vary based on environmental conditions.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'respiratio', meaning 'to breathe again'.
  • Ancient Greek medical professionals were among the first to study breathing processes in detail.

Science

  • Respiration is essential for all living beings, including plants, animals, and humans.
  • There are two main types of respiration: aerobic, which requires oxygen, and anaerobic, which does not.
  • In photosynthesis, plants generate oxygen through a process that is the opposite of respiration.

Health

  • Breathing exercises can help manage stress and improve overall health.
  • Respiratory diseases, such as asthma and COPD, affect millions and require ongoing management.

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures have rituals and practices that emphasize breathing techniques for meditation and relaxation.
  • In yoga, specific breathing patterns (Pranayama) are used to enhance mental clarity and physical health.

Biology

  • Respiration is a biochemical process that converts glucose into energy, producing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts.
  • Mitochondria, known as the 'powerhouses of the cell', are integral to cellular respiration.

Translations

Translations of the word "respiration" in other languages:

🇵🇹 respiração

🇮🇳 श्वसन

🇩🇪 Atmung

🇮🇩 pernapasan

🇺🇦 дихання

🇵🇱 oddychanie

🇯🇵 呼吸 (こきゅう)

🇫🇷 respiration

🇪🇸 respiración

🇹🇷 solunum

🇰🇷 호흡 (hôhŭp)

🇸🇦 تنفس (tanaffus)

🇨🇿 dýchání

🇸🇰 dýchanie

🇨🇳 呼吸 (hūxī)

🇸🇮 dihanje

🇮🇸 öndun

🇰🇿 тыныс алу

🇬🇪 სუნთქვა (suntqva)

🇦🇿 nəfəs alma

🇲🇽 respiración

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,355 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.