ˈrespəˌrād.ə(r), -ātə- sometimes -ˌsprā- noun
( -s )
Etymology: Latin respirat us (past participle of respirare to breathe) + English -or — more at respire
1. : a device (as a gas mask) for protecting the respiratory tract (as against irritating and poisonous gases, fumes, smoke, dusts) with or without equipment supplying oxygen or air
filter respirators provide protection against any particulate matter, either solid, mist, or spray in an atmosphere containing a sufficient amount of oxygen — F.A.Van Atta
air line respirators
2. : a device for maintaining artificial respiration
chest and tank respirators
— compare cuirass 4b, iron lung