mucus
0 synonyms and 0 antonyms for mucus, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The slippery fluid produced by the lining of the nose, throat, lungs, gut and other internal surfaces, which keeps them moist and traps dust and germs.
We haven't recorded synonyms for mucus yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.
How to use mucus
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Neutral and medical; everyday speech often uses 'snot' or 'catarrh' instead.
Etymology
From Latin mucus, meaning nasal mucus.
Full origin of mucus →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between mucus and mucous?
Mucus is the noun, the substance itself. Mucous is the adjective, used in phrases such as mucous membrane. If you can put 'the' in front of it, you want mucus.
What does the colour of mucus mean?
Clear mucus is normal, and thicker white or yellow mucus is common with a cold as immune cells gather in it. Green mucus is often assumed to mean a bacterial infection, but on its own it does not prove one; persistent symptoms are a better reason to see a doctor.
What is the difference between mucus and phlegm?
Phlegm is specifically the mucus produced in the lower airways and coughed up from the chest. All phlegm is mucus, but mucus from the nose or gut is not called phlegm.