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

1 sense of sputum

Sense 1
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)