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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 sialoid
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.
Derived Forms
- salivary, adjective
Other Word Forms
- ··· [sal, -, uh, -ver-ee], adjective
Word History and Origins
Origin of saliva1
Word History and Origins
Origin of saliva1
Example Sentences
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.
A saliva test may help "turn the tide" on prostate cancer, UK scientists claim.
Researchers will test swimmers' saliva to track cortisol levels - a stress-related hormone - before and after cold water immersion.
Viral particles travel via airborne droplets of saliva, mucus and cells that make their way into a new body when their unsuspecting host breathes them in.
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