respiration meaning and definition

RESPIRATION noun

Definition of respiration (noun)

1. the metabolic processes whereby certain organisms obtain energy from organic molecules; processes that take place in the cells and tissues during which energy is released and carbon dioxide is produced and absorbed by the blood to be transported to the lungs
   • synonyms: cellular respiration, internal respiration
2. a single complete act of breathing in and out
   • "thirty respirations per minute"
3. the bodily process of inhalation and exhalation; the process of taking in oxygen from inhaled air and releasing carbon dioxide by exhalation
   • synonyms: breathing, external respiration, ventilation