saliva

[ suh-lahy-vuh ]

noun

1. 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

1. 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

/ sə-lī′və /

1. 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

1. 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 Words From

• sal·i·var·y [sal, -, uh, -ver-ee], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of saliva¹

First recorded in 1670–80, saliva is from the Latin word salīva

Word History and Origins

Origin of saliva¹

C17: from Latin, of obscure origin

Example Sentences

Lui said studies have shown that toxic chemicals can leach out of children’s toys and into their saliva if they put the products in their mouth.

From Los Angeles Times

The 53-year-old has been told for the past five years that he is terminally ill and knows he could die tomorrow by choking on food or on his own saliva.

From BBC

It spreads through birds' droppings and saliva, or through contaminated feed and water.

From BBC

Rabies is a rare but deadly viral disease that can be spread to humans from an infected animal - such as bats, coyotes, foxes or raccoons - most commonly through its saliva.

From BBC

But in 2009, DNA testing on saliva from bite marks on her body linked Lazarus to the crime.

From Los Angeles Times