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 theory behind the Mucinex method is about cervical mucus. —Fiorella Valdesolo, Vogue, 20 Dec. 2024

Inhaling the steam from and consuming a hot beverage (like water) can help nasal congestion by breaking up mucus and unclogging the sinuses. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 16 Dec. 2024

Additionally, decongestants help relieve stuffiness and dry up the mucus in your nose. —Dominique Fluker, Essence, 22 Oct. 2024

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