Category:Phlegm

Phlegm, n. Etym: [f. phlegme, flegme, l. phlegma, fr. Gr. Phlox, Flagrant, flame, bleak, a., and fluminate.]

1. One of the four humors of which the ancients supposed the blood to Be composed. See humor. Arbuthnot.

2. (physiol.)

Defn: viscid mucus secreted in abnormal quantity in the respiratory And digestive passages.

3. (old chem.)

Defn: a watery distilled liquor, in distinction from a spirituous Liquor. Crabb.

4. Sluggishness of temperament; dullness; want of interest; Indifference; coldness. They judge with fury, but they write with phlegm. Pope.