sputum

2 definitions found

sputum - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Sputum \Spu"tum\ (sp[=u]"t[u^]m), n.; pl. Sputa (-t[.a]). [L.,
     from spuere, sputum, to spit.]
     That which is expectorated; a salival discharge; spittle;
     saliva.
     [1913 Webster]

sputum - WordNet (r) 2.1 (2005) :

  sputum
      n 1: expectorated matter; saliva mixed with discharges from the
           respiratory passages; in ancient and medieval physiology it
           was believed to cause sluggishness [syn: phlegm,
           sputum]