sputum

noun

spu·​tum ˈspyü-təm 

ˈspü-

plural sputa ˈspyü-tə 

ˈspü-

also sputums

: matter expectorated from the respiratory system and especially the lungs that is composed of mucus but may contain pus, blood, fibrin, or microorganisms (such as bacteria) in diseased states

Examples of sputum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Usually, patients will have blood and other samples, such as sputum or pus, taken from a bubo. —Adela Suliman, Washington Post, 9 July 2024

The ancients of Greece and China confirmed tuberculosis by tossing a patient’s sputum onto hot coals and smelling the fumes. —Scott Sayare Robert Petkoff Anna Diamond Quinton Kamara, New York Times, 14 June 2024

After a few hours in the chamber, the study participants gave sputum samples, which helped researchers identify those who were sensitive to the fumes and exactly how their airways and lungs were being affected. —Linda Carroll, TIME, 30 May 2024

You'll be asked to cough up some sputum with as little saliva as possible. —Tanya Feke, Verywell Health, 4 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from neuter of sputus, past participle of spuere to spit — more at spew

First Known Use

circa 1693, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

sputum

noun

spu·​tum ˈsp(y)üt-əm 

plural sputa -ə 

: material that is spit or coughed up from the lungs and bronchi and is made up mostly of mucus

Medical Definition

sputum

noun

spu·​tum ˈsp(y)üt-əm 

plural sputa -ə 

: matter expectorated from the respiratory system and especially the lungs in diseased states that is composed of mucus but may contain pus, blood, fibrin, or microorganisms (as bacteria)