A connector (10) is disclosed that comprises a mask end (28) for connecting in fluid communication with the interior of a respiratory mask (12) and (28), a supply conduit end (30) disposed at an angle to the mask end (28) for connecting in fluid communication with the outlet of a breathable gas supply conduit (31). The connector (10) also includes a gas washout vent passage (32) having an inlet (41) adjacent to, or forming part of, the mask end (28) in fluid communication with the interior of the respiratory mask (12) and an outlet (40) in fluid communication with atmosphere. The outlet (40) includes an interior surface (42) that forms a smooth prolongation with an adjacent exterior surface (44) of the connector (10). The vent outlet (40) is disposed on the side of the connector (10) remote the mask end (28), has a generally part-annular cross section and is adapted to direct the washout gas in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the mask end (28) and substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the supply conduit end (30) towards the supply conduit end (30). A respiratory mask (100) is also disclosed that comprises a mask shell (102) defining an interior of the respiratory mask (100), a mask inlet (106) for connecting in fluid communication with the outlet of a breathable gas supply conduit (108), and a gas washout vent passage (110). The vent passage (110) has an inlet (116) forming part of the mask shell (102) and in fluid communication with the interior of the respiratory mask (100) and an outlet (118) in fluid communication with atmosphere. The outlet (118) includes an interior surface (120) that forms a smooth prolongation with an adjacent exterior surface (122) of the mask shell (102). The vent outlet (118) is disposed on the side of the mask (100) remote the mask interior and is adapted to direct the washout gas in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the mask inlet (106) and away from the mask
