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 saltwater solution clears the nasal cavity, flushing away mucus, bacteria and other irritants. —Jocelyn Solis-Moreira, CNN, 4 Dec. 2024

The arid conditions dry out the mucus in your sinuses, which can cause the sinus walls to become swollen or inflamed, while drying out the skin inside the throat and nasal passages. —Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Nov. 2024

Doctors suctioned mucus out of his nose, which was a bit traumatizing for Nurnberger. —Ashley Abramson, SELF, 2 Oct. 2024

Stay Hydrated Drinking plenty of water helps clear your throat of mucus and other debris that can contribute to tonsil stones. —Jake Parks, Discover Magazine, 30 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