Definition

1. Noun:
   • A thick, slimy substance produced by the mucous membranes of the body. It serves as a protective and lubricating secretion.

Usage

• Mucus is an uncountable noun. It refers to the substance in general.
• It is commonly discussed in contexts of health, biology, and medicine, particularly concerning the respiratory system (nose, throat, lungs) and the digestive tract.

Examples

• Noun:
  • When you have a cold, your body produces more mucus.
  • The stomach lining secretes mucus to protect itself from acid.
  • The doctor examined the color and consistency of the patient's mucus.

Advanced Usage

• "Mucus membrane" (often spelled mucous membrane) : The tissue that lines various body cavities and secretes mucus.
  • The nasal passages are lined with a mucus membrane.
• "Mucus plug": A collection of mucus that can block a bodily passage, such as in the cervix during pregnancy or in the airways.
  • The loss of the mucus plug can be a sign that labor is approaching.

Variants and Related Words

• Mucous (adj): Of, relating to, or resembling mucus.
  • The mucous glands are active during an infection.
• Mucoid (adj): Resembling mucus.
• Mucilage (n): A viscous substance obtained from plants, similar in texture to mucus.

Synonyms

• Phlegm: Specifically refers to mucus secreted in the respiratory passages, especially when coughed up.
• Sputum: Mucus mixed with saliva and often other matter from the respiratory tract, especially when expectorated.
• Slime: A more general term for a thick, slippery substance.

Related Phrases

• "To clear one's throat of mucus": To cough or otherwise remove mucus from the throat.
  • He cleared his throat to get rid of the mucus.
• "Runny nose": A condition where excess mucus drips from the nose.
  • A runny nose is a common symptom of allergies.

Notes on Meaning

• The primary meaning of mucus is the protective bodily secretion. It should not be confused with pus, which is a thick fluid associated with infection.
• While often associated with illness (like a runny nose), mucus is always present and is essential for healthy bodily function, trapping particles and moisturizing tissues.

Noun

1. 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 epithelium