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- Saliva - meaning & definition
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/səˈlaɪ.və/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A watery fluid produced in the mouths of humans and many animals, consisting primarily of water, electrolytes, mucus, and enzymes, that aids in digestion and oral hygiene.
The dentist explained that saliva helps to neutralize acids produced by bacteria in the mouth.
The secretion of the salivary glands, often referred to in context of its role in taste and digestion.
When we smell delicious food, our brains signal our salivary glands to produce saliva.
A term sometimes used to refer to excessive production of saliva, often seen in certain medical conditions.
The patient reported excessive saliva, a symptom with which they had been struggling since their diagnosis.
A cultural or idiomatic reference to the idea of drooling or showing intense desire.
He salivated at the thought of the gourmet meal awaiting him at the restaurant.
Etymology
Latin 'saliva', meaning 'spit'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
dry mouth
A condition where salivary secretion is insufficient.
saliva test
A test that analyzes saliva samples for various substances.
mouth-watering
A phrase used to describe something that is enticing, often related to food and saliva production.
Related Words
salivary gland
Glands that secrete saliva into the mouth.
spit
A synonym for saliva; to expel saliva from the mouth.
drooling
The uncontrolled flow of saliva from the mouth.
Slang Meanings
Spit
He accidentally got some saliva on the floor while talking.
Drool
The baby was drooling all over her blanket.