Mucus

/ˈmjuːkəs/ noun

Definition

A slippery, wet fluid produced by your body to protect and lubricate organs like your nose, throat, and stomach.

Etymology

From Latin 'mucus' (slime, nasal secretion), possibly related to 'mungere' (to blow the nose). The word has meant the same thing for over 2,000 years.

Kelly Says

Mucus is actually crucial for survival—it protects your stomach from its own acid and traps bacteria and viruses in your nose—but we call it 'gross' even though your body is constantly making fresh batches to keep you alive.

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