mucus

noun

mu·​cus ˈmyü-kəs 

: a viscid slippery secretion that is usually rich in mucins and is produced by mucous membranes which it moistens and protects

Examples of mucus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The infected birds spread the virus through their saliva, mucus and feces. —Benedict Cosgrove, Newsweek, 19 Dec. 2024

Your cervical mucus may appear thick, pasty, or sticky.3 Some people may also feel more stressed or anxious. —Carley Millhone, Health, 13 Dec. 2024

This happens because the infection affects the cilia in the lungs, which usually help clear mucus and bacteria. —Alyssa Hui-Anderson, Verywell Health, 5 Nov. 2024

Studies have evaluated whether this agent could also improve cervical mucus by improving sperm survival and fertility. —Dominique Fluker, Essence, 25 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin mūcus, muccus "nasal discharge," perhaps going back to *moukos, o-grade derivative of Indo-European *(s)muk- "nasal discharge," *(s)meuk- "undo, loosen, wipe off" — more at myxo-

Note: See note at myxo-.

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

mucus

noun

mu·​cus ˈmyü-kəs 

: a slippery sticky substance produced especially by mucous membranes which it moistens and protects

Medical Definition

mucus

noun

mu·​cus ˈmyü-kəs 

: a viscid slippery secretion that is usually rich in mucins and is produced by mucous membranes which it moistens and protects