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saliva
[suh-lahy-vuh]
noun
a viscid, watery fluid, secreted into the mouth by the salivary glands, that functions in the tasting, chewing, and swallowing of food, moistens the mouth, and starts the digestion of starches.
saliva
/ səˈlaɪvə, səˈlaɪvərɪ, ˈsælɪvərɪ /
noun
the secretion of salivary glands, consisting of a clear usually slightly acid aqueous fluid of variable composition. It moistens the oral cavity, prepares food for swallowing, and initiates the process of digestion
saliva
The watery fluid that is secreted into the mouth by the salivary glands. In many animals, including humans, it contains the enzyme amylase, which breaks down carbohydrates. Saliva also contains mucus, which lubricates food for swallowing, and various proteins and mineral salts. Some special chemicals occur in the saliva of other animals, such as anticoagulants in the saliva of mosquitoes.
saliva
The fluid produced by the secretions of the salivary glands. Saliva contains enzymes that begin the digestion of starches. It also moistens the mouth tissues and makes food easier to chew and swallow.
Other Word Forms
- salivary adjective
Word History and Origins
Origin of saliva1
Word History and Origins
Origin of saliva1
Example Sentences
He sent off a saliva sample in the post to be analysed.
The sale comes after a wave of customers and government officials demanded that 23andMe protect the genetic data it had built up over the years by collecting saliva samples from customers.
A saliva sample from a bite on Rasmussen’s forearm was stored separately, in a freezer at the coroner’s office.
The virus is spread through an infected animal’s saliva, usually during a bite.
The virus can spread through the urine, feces or saliva of wild rodents, including deer mice, which are common in many parts of California, according to the California Department of Public Health.
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