expectorant

[ik-spek-ter-uhnt]

adjective

1. promoting the discharge of phlegm or other fluid from the respiratory tract.

noun

1. an expectorant medicine.

expectorant

/ ɪkˈspɛktərənt /

adjective

1. promoting the secretion, liquefaction, or expulsion of sputum from the respiratory passages

noun

1. an expectorant drug or agent

expectorant

1. A drug that promotes the discharge of phlegm or mucus from the respiratory tract.

Word History and Origins

Origin of expectorant¹

1775–85; < Latin expectorant- (stem of expectorāns ), present participle of expectorāre to expectorate; -ant

Example Sentences

Marketed as quick relief for sore throats and stubborn coughs, these sweet syrups mix sugar, colour and flavouring with a cocktail of antihistamines, decongestants, expectorants.

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In India, 33 children died in 1998 after taking a contaminated cough expectorant.

Read more on New York Times

Acetaminophen can help relieve aches and pains, and cold medications with expectorant can loosen up chest congestion.

Read more on Seattle Times

Treatment involved a “toxic arsenal of emetics, laxatives, diuretics, and expectorants” as well as “lances, leeches, and blisters.”

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To address this, the scientists looked at research databases for relevant studies comparing honey and preparations that included it as an ingredient with usual care – mostly antihistamines, expectorants, cough suppressants and painkillers.

Read more on The Guardian