mu·cus (my  k s)n. The viscous, slippery substance that consists chiefly of mucin, water, cells, and inorganic salts and is secreted as a protective lubricant coating by cells and glands of the mucous membranes. [Latin m  cus.] |
mucus [ˈmjuːkəs]
n
(Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Physiology) (Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Biochemistry) the slimy protective secretion of the mucous membranes, consisting mainly of mucin
[from Latin: nasal secretions; compare mungere to blow the nose; related to Greek muxa mucus, muktēr nose]
Usage: See at mucous
| mucus (myks) The slimy, viscous substance secreted as a protective lubricant by mucous membranes. Mucus is composed chiefly of large glycoproteins called mucins and inorganic salts suspended in water. |
mucous, mucus - Mucous is the adjective from Latin meaning "slimy," and mucus is the noun from Latin but cognate with Greek mussesthai, "blow the nose."
See also related terms for slime.
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. |  mucus - protective secretion of the mucus membranes; in the gut it lubricates the passage of food and protects the epithelial cells; in the nose and throat and lungs it can make it difficult for bacteria to penetrate the body through the epitheliumsecretion - a functionally specialized substance (especially one that is not a waste) released from a gland or cell sputum, phlegm - expectorated matter; saliva mixed with discharges from the respiratory passages; in ancient and medieval physiology it was believed to cause sluggishness snot - nasal mucus booger - dried nasal mucus leucorrhea, leukorrhea - discharge of white mucous material from the vagina; often an indication of infection mucin - a nitrogenous substance found in mucous secretions; a lubricant that protects body surfaces |
Translations
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