Pronunciation: /ˈmjuːkəs/

Definitions of mucus

noun a slimy substance, typically found in the nose and throat, that helps to protect and lubricate the mucous membranes

Example Sentences

A1 She wiped the mucus from her baby's nose with a tissue.

A2 The doctor explained that mucus helps to protect the lungs from dust and germs.

B1 Allergies can cause an increase in mucus production, leading to congestion.

B2 The patient coughed up thick, yellow mucus, indicating a possible infection.

C1 The researcher studied the composition of mucus and its role in the immune system.

C2 The mucous membranes in the respiratory tract help to trap and remove harmful particles from the air.

Examples of mucus in a Sentence

formal The mucus lining in the respiratory tract helps to trap and remove bacteria and other particles.

informal I hate it when I have a runny nose and the mucus just won't stop flowing.

slang I can't believe he sneezed and got mucus all over his shirt.

figurative The corruption in the government is like a thick layer of mucus, difficult to remove and constantly causing problems.

Grammatical Forms of mucus

plural

mucuses

comparative

more mucus

superlative

most mucus

present tense

produces mucus

future tense

will produce mucus

perfect tense

has produced mucus

continuous tense

is producing mucus

singular

mucus

positive degree

mucus

infinitive

to produce mucus

gerund

producing mucus

participle

produced mucus

Origin and Evolution of mucus

First Known Use: 1601 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'mucus' originated from the Latin word 'mucus' meaning 'slime, mold'.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'mucus' has retained its original meaning of a slimy substance produced by the body, but has also been used in a medical context to refer to nasal or respiratory secretions.