mucus
NounUS[myoo-kuhs]/ˈmjukəs/2 syllables
Synonyms:
mucous secretion
Open English WordNet
Noun (1)
- protective secretion of the mucous membranes; in the gut it lubricates the passage of food and protects the epithelial cells; in the nose and throat and lungs it can make it difficult for bacteria to penetrate the body through the epitheliumSynonyms: mucous secretionType of secretionKinds booger, leukorrhea, snot, phlegmMade of mucin
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Webster's Dictionary (1913)
Mu′cus (mū′kŭs), noun
Origin: L. mucus, muccus; cf. mucere to be moldy or musty, Gr. μύξα mucus, and Skr. muc to release. Cf. Match for striking fire, Moist, Mucilage.
1. Physiology A viscid fluid secreted by mucous membranes, which it serves to moisten and protect. It covers the lining membranes of all the cavities which open externally, such as those of the mouth, nose, lungs, intestinal canal, urinary passages, etc.
2. Physiology Any other animal fluid of a viscid quality, as the synovial fluid, which lubricates the cavities of the joints; — improperly so used.
3. Botany A gelatinous or slimy substance found in certain algae and other plants.
Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913), from GCIDE 0.54