First Known Use: 13th century
Dictionary
phlegm
noun \ˈflem\
: a thick, yellowish liquid that is produced in the nose and throat especially when a person has a cold
: calmness in a difficult or unpleasant situation
Full Definition of PHLEGM
1
: the one of the four humors in early physiology that was considered to be cold and moist and to cause sluggishness
2
: viscid mucus secreted in abnormal quantity in the respiratory passages
3
a : dull or apathetic coldness or indifference b : intrepid coolness or calm fortitude
— phlegmy \ˈfle-mē\ adjective
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Origin of PHLEGM
Middle English fleume, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin phlegmat-, phlegma, from Greek, flame, inflammation, phlegm, from phlegein to burn — more at black
Related to PHLEGM
- Synonyms
- affectlessness, emotionlessness, impassiveness, impassivity, insensibility, numbness, apathy
- Antonyms
- emotion, feeling, sensibility
Other Physiology Terms
Medical Dictionary
phlegm
noun \ˈflem\
Medical Definition of PHLEGM
1
: the one of the four humors of ancient and medieval physiology that was believed to be cold and moist and to cause sluggishness
2
: viscid mucus secreted in abnormal quantity in the respiratory passages
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