Meaning & Definition of word "Phlegm"

Phlegm

/flɛm/

1. A thick, viscous secretion produced by the mucous membranes of the respiratory system, often associated with illness or irritation.
- Example: During the cold, he had so much phlegm that he found it difficult to breathe.
2. A quality of calmness, self-restraint, or stoicism, especially in the face of difficulties.
- Example: Despite the chaos around her, she maintained her phlegm and made clear decisions.
3. One of the four humors in ancient medicine, believed to be associated with a sluggish and calm temperament.
- Example: In ancient Greek medicine, an excess of phlegm was thought to lead to melancholic dispositions.

●From Latin 'phlegma', from Greek 'phlegma' meaning 'inflammation, heat'.

get something out of your system:

To express or release pent-up emotions or thoughts.

a phlegmatic response:

A calm and composed reaction to a situation.

mucus:

A slippery secretion produced by, and covering, mucous membranes.

sputum:

Matter coughed up from the respiratory tract, often containing phlegm.

Meaning: A feeling of lethargy or sluggishness.

● Example Sentence: After the party last night, I feel all phlegm today.