phlegm
word
Definition
Thick, sticky mucus that is produced in the throat or lungs, often when you have a cold or other respiratory infection.
Usage & Nuances
Formal and medical term; 'phlegm' is used mainly to describe mucus from the lungs or throat, not the nose. Common in health and doctor's contexts. Not the same as 'snot' (from the nose).
Spanish: flemaPortuguese (BR): catarroPortuguese (PT): catarroChinese (Simplified): 痰Chinese (Traditional): 痰Hindi: कफArabic: بلغم
Example Sentences
She coughed up thick phlegm when she was sick.
basic
Too much phlegm can make it hard to breathe.
basic
Drinking warm water helps to clear phlegm.
basic
If you notice green phlegm, you should see a doctor.
natural
He kept clearing his throat because he had phlegm stuck.
natural
All this coughing is making me spit up phlegm every few minutes.
natural