Definition of mucus in US English: mucus
noun 1 A slimy substance, typically not miscible with water, secreted by mucous membranes and glands for lubrication, protection, etc.
Example sentences
‘Actually coughing is a healthy reflex that helps clear mucus or phlegm in the throat and chest.’ ‘Physiotherapy helps clear the thick, sticky mucus from the lungs.’ ‘The cervical mucus plugs the cervical canal and normally prevents foreign materials from entering the reproductive tract.’ ‘Dysentery was defined as the presence of blood and mucus in the stools.’ ‘To increase participation, we also collected nasal mucus by asking volunteers to blow their noses into a paper tissue.’ ‘A person with cystic fibrosis produces thick, sticky mucus that provides a perfect breeding ground for bacterial growth.’ ‘Your baby's doctor may recommend saline nose drops or saltwater nasal spray to loosen thick nasal mucus.’ ‘Davis worries that inhibitors of mucus secretion might block activity of beneficial proteins.’ ‘Common symptoms include shortness of breath, chronic coughing and increased mucus production.’ ‘Excess mucus in the airways causes severe cough and discomfort, and can lead to further obstruction and inflammation.’ ‘The normal physiologic vaginal discharge comprises vaginal secretions, exfoliated cells and cervical mucus.’ ‘We therefore sought to study the mechanisms by which this increase in airway mucus production is regulated.’ ‘Coughing is good because it helps to clear foreign objects and mucus from your lungs and breathing tubes.’ ‘Calcium ions have been mentioned as a possible means of stiffening a mucus secretion.’ ‘The bacteria feed on mucus secreted by glands on the worms' backs.’ ‘If necessary to loosen mucus in the nose, you can use salt water nose drops.’ ‘Excess mucus occurs only in some pathological conditions, and makes its presence known in the stools.’ ‘It is spread by contact with the saliva or mucus of an infected person.’ ‘The conjunctiva contains thousands of cells that produce mucus and tiny glands that produce tears.’ ‘Other symptoms include a fever, tenderness over your face, and thick green or yellow mucus in your nose.’ 1.1 A gummy substance found in plants; mucilage.
Example sentences
‘Mucus produced by the plant provides temporary and effective protection from petroleum damage.’ ‘The tube feet, arranged in groups of three on the pinnules, are coated with mucus that ensnares the prey.’ ‘This plant secretes mucus from a stalk.’ Origin Mid 17th century: from Latin.
Pronunciation mucus /ˈmyo͞okəs/ /ˈmjukəs/