PHLEGM

Phlegm

Phlegm is a liquid secreted by the mucous membranes of mammalians. Its definition is limited to the mucus produced by the respiratory system, excluding that from the nasal passages, and particularly that which is expelled by coughing . Phlegm is in essence a water-based gel consisting of glycoproteins, immunoglobulins, lipids and other substances. Its composition varies depending on climate, genetics, and state of the immune system. Its color can vary from transparent to pale or dark yellow and green, from light to dark brown, and even to dark grey depending on the constituents.

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phlegm

Noun

  1. One of the four humors making up the body in ancient and mediaeval medicine; said to be cold and moist, and often identified with mucus.
  2. Viscid mucus produced by the body, later especially mucus expelled from the bronchial passages by coughing.
  3. A watery distillation, especially one obtained from plant matter; an aqueous solution.
  4. Calmness of temperament, composure; also seen negatively, sluggishness, indifference.


The above text is a snippet from Wiktionary: phlegm
and as such is available under the Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License.

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