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English

sputum

|spu/tum|

C1

/ˈspjuːtəm/

mixture of saliva and mucus

Etymology
Etymology Information

'sputum' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'sputum', where 'spuere' meant 'to spit'.

Historical Evolution

'sputum' has remained largely unchanged from its Latin origins, maintaining its meaning related to expectoration.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to spit', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a mixture of saliva and mucus'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a mixture of saliva and mucus coughed up from the respiratory tract, typically as a result of infection or other disease.

The doctor asked for a sample of the patient's sputum to test for infection.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/02/04 06:41