mucous

[ myoo-kuhs ]

adjective

1. pertaining to, consisting of, or resembling mucus.
2. containing or secreting mucus.

mucous

/ mjuːˈkɒsɪtɪ; ˈmjuːkəs; ˈmjuːkəʊs; -kəʊz /

adjective

1. of, resembling, or secreting mucus

Usage

The noun mucus is often misspelled mucous . Mucous can only be correctly used as an adjective

Derived Forms

• mucosity, noun

Other Words From

• mu·cos·i·ty [myoo-, kos, -i-tee], noun
• non·mucous adjective
• sub·mucous adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of mucous¹

1640–50; < Latin mūcōsus slimy, mucous, equivalent to mūc ( us ) snot ( mucus ) + -ōsus -ous

Word History and Origins

Origin of mucous¹

C17: from Latin mūcōsus slimy, from mucus

Example Sentences

Most alcohol enters the bloodstream via the mucous membrane layer of the stomach and the intestines.

From Science Daily

The disease causes tongue and mucous membrane lesions, problems with swallowing, lameness and stiffness, affecting animal welfare and leading to a reduction in milk yields.

From BBC

It is produced by staphylococci, which are typical colonizers of the skin and mucous membranes.

From Science Daily

"Additives, such as maltodextrin, may promote a mucous layer that is friendly to certain species of bacteria that are found in greater abundance in patients with inflammatory bowel disease," said Sherling.

From Science Daily

Among other things, this can lead to acute swelling of the skin or mucous membranes.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• viscous