saliva

noun

sa·​li·​va sə-ˈlī-və 

: a slightly alkaline secretion of water, mucin, protein, salts, and often a starch-splitting enzyme (such as ptyalin) that is secreted into the mouth by salivary glands, lubricates ingested food, and often begins the breakdown of starches

Synonyms

• drool
• slaver
• slobber
• spit
• spittle

Examples of saliva in a Sentence

our mouths filled with saliva when we smelled the delicious dinner

Recent Examples on the Web

The at-home adrenal test collects a saliva sample to be sent back to Thorne’s laboratory using a prepaid shipper. —Anna Haines, Forbes, 12 Dec. 2024

The Results The researchers also measured the babies' oxytocin levels using saliva samples. —Mark R. Weaver, Newsweek, 3 Dec. 2024

Finally, the combination of a small incision, made by potentially self-sharpening fangs, and an anticoagulant in their saliva allows these bats to feed on unsuspecting prey. —Sebastian Stockmaier, The Conversation, 28 Oct. 2024

Oral Health During perimenopause and menopause, the drop in estrogen and progesterone levels can make gums more sensitive and lead to a decrease in saliva, which acts as a natural cleaner and protectant for the mouth. —Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 27 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

saliva

noun

sa·​li·​va sə-ˈlī-və 

: a fluid containing water, protein, salts, and often a starch-splitting enzyme that is secreted into the mouth by salivary glands

Medical Definition

saliva

noun

sa·​li·​va sə-ˈlī-və 

: a slightly alkaline secretion of water, mucin, protein, salts, and often a starch-splitting enzyme (as ptyalin) that is secreted into the mouth by salivary glands, lubricates ingested food, and often begins the breakdown of starches