Sputum

2 definitions found

From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 [gcide]:

  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]



From WordNet (r) 2.0 [wn]:

  sputum
       n : expectorated matter; saliva mixed with discharges from the
           respiratory passages; in ancient and medieval physiology
           it was believed to cause sluggishness [syn: {phlegm}]
       [also: {sputa} (pl)]