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

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

If nose-picking is a new habit, something in their nose, like excess mucus, may be causing irritation. —Amanda Rock, Parents, 30 July 2024

Hormonal IUDs release progestin to thicken cervical mucus, prevent ovulation, and thin the uterine lining. —Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 5 Nov. 2024

The progestin hormone thickens cervical mucus to block sperm from reaching the egg. —Dominique Fluker, Essence, 28 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