Synonyms/Hypernyms (Ordered by Estimated Frequency) of noun phlegm

3 senses of phlegm

Sense 1
emotionlessness, impassivity, impassiveness, phlegm, indifference, stolidity, unemotionality -- (apathy demonstrated by an absence of emotional reactions)
       => apathy -- (an absence of emotion or enthusiasm)

Sense 2
phlegm, sputum -- (expectorated matter; saliva mixed with discharges from the respiratory passages; in ancient and medieval physiology it was believed to cause sluggishness)
       => mucus, mucous secretion -- (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)

Sense 3
languor, lethargy, sluggishness, phlegm, flatness -- (inactivity; showing an unusual lack of energy; "the general appearance of sluggishness alarmed his friends")
       => inactiveness, inactivity, inertia -- (a disposition to remain inactive or inert; "he had to overcome his inertia and get back to work")