Mucus
/ˈmjuː.kəs/noun
A slimy substance produced in the body, especially by mucous membranes.
Did you know?In ancient Rome, mucus was believed to have protective properties, often used in rituals for purification and healing.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*meu-
“to moisten or to be wet.”
Latin
Latin
mucus
“slime or moist substance.”
Old French
Old French
mucus
“slimy matter.”
Middle English
Middle English
mucus
“slime or nasal discharge.”
Modern English
English
mucus
“the viscous secretion of mucous membranes.”