What does spirometry mean?
Spirometry is the clinical measurement of how well a person’s lungs work. It commonly involves taking a deep breath and then breathing out forcefully into a spirometer, which records the amount of air moved and the speed of exhalation. The resulting measurements help doctors assess airflow obstruction and monitor respiratory illnesses such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and other lung or airway conditions. In everyday medical settings, “spirometry” may refer either to the measurement itself or to the test used to make it. It differs from a general breathing or lung-capacity check because it provides standardized, quantitative information about airflow. The word is formed from Greek roots meaning “to breathe” and “to measure,” accurately describing a procedure that converts breath into measurable clinical data.
nounThe measurement of lung capacity and function, especially the volume of air inhaled and exhaled and the speed of exhalation. A spirometry test is commonly used to assess respiratory health and help diagnose conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
- The measurement of lung volume, airflow, and respiratory function, usually by means of a spirometer.
"The doctor ordered spirometry to evaluate the patient's breathing and lung function."
"Spirometry revealed a reduction in the patient's forced expiratory volume."
"The clinic uses spirometry to monitor people with suspected asthma."
Usually used in the plural when referring to separate measurements or test results.
"The patient's spirometries showed improvement after treatment."
Spirometry turns a simple breath into a detailed reading of how well the lungs are working.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of spirometry
The word was formed in the 19th century from Greek spyrō, “I breathe,” and metron, “measure,” with the connecting element -metry. Its components reflect the procedure’s purpose: measuring the movement and capacity of the lungs. The “breathe” element also connects it with related words derived from Latin spirare, such as respiration and inspiration.
Related word forms
How spirometry is actually used
Spirometry is a clinical measurement and procedure; it is often used broadly as a term for tests assessing how the lungs empty and refill.