Definition of: respirator

(res′pə·rā′tər) noun
1. A screen, as of fine gauze, worn over the mouth or nose, as a protection against dust, etc.
2. A device worn over the nose and mouth for the inhalation of medicated vapors, or to warm or sift the air for lung patients.
3. A gas mask.
4. An apparatus for artificial respiration, as a Pulmotor. [<L respiratus, pp. of respirare. See RESPIRE.]