mucilage

noun

mu·​ci·​lage ˈmyü-s(ə-)lij 

1

: a gelatinous substance of various plants (such as legumes or seaweeds) that contains protein and polysaccharides and is similar to plant gums

2

: an aqueous usually viscid solution (as of a gum) used especially as an adhesive

Examples of mucilage in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The mucilage in bladderwrack—a gel-like substance—can benefit individuals with gastritis or indigestion by coating irritated mucous membranes along the digestive tract. —Boutayna Chokrane, WIRED, 6 Dec. 2024

Chia's soluble fiber and mucilage form a thick and sticky gel in the digestive system, which may prevent the absorption of nutrients. —Amy Brownstein, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 9 Sep. 2024

Slippery elm: This herb, like marshmallow root, contains mucilage. —Jessica Migala, Health, 19 June 2024

In the first batch, the beans were washed, and the mucilage (the inner layer of the pulp) was stripped away before being dried. —Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 19 May 2023

Word History

Etymology

Middle English muscilage, from Late Latin mucilago mucus, musty juice, from Latin mucus

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

mucilage

noun

mu·​ci·​lage ˈmyü-s(ə-)lij 

1

: a jellylike substance of various plants (as seaweeds or cacti) that is similar to plant gums

2

: a water solution of a gum or similar substance used especially as an adhesive

Medical Definition

mucilage

noun

mu·​ci·​lage ˈmyü-s(ə-)lij 

1

: a gelatinous substance of various plants (as legumes or seaweeds) that contains protein and polysaccharides and is similar to plant gums

2

: an aqueous usually viscid solution (as of a gum) used in pharmacy as an excipient and in medicine as a demulcent