respiration

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 lungsSynonyms: cellular respiration, internal respiration, respiration

2. a single complete act of breathing in and outExamples: "thirty respirations per minute"Synonyms: respiration

3. the bodily process of inhalation and exhalation; the process of taking in oxygen from inhaled air and releasing carbon dioxide by exhalationSynonyms: breathing, external respiration, respiration, ventilation