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phlegmy

American  
[flem-ee] / ˈflɛm i /

adjective

phlegmier, phlegmiest
  1. of, relating to, or characterized by phlegm.


Etymology

Origin of phlegmy

First recorded in 1540–50; phlegm + -y 1

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

You’ll also hear a larger, darker woofling from the tailpipes, and phlegmy, spattering cough as the rpm fall off.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 6, 2026

His once sonorous voice, capable of issuing booming blasts of indignation, has grown somewhat quieter and more phlegmy.

From Salon • Sep. 18, 2023

Sometimes plain and phlegmy, sometimes blood red from chewing tobacco-laced betel nut or paan, it decorates simple walls and mighty edifices alike.

From BBC • Dec. 26, 2021

The surgeon on the New York flight later developed a high fever and phlegmy cough and was rushed to a local hospital the next morning.

From Fox News • Jun. 15, 2020

Suddenly he coughed, the cough of a phlegmy old man—and got to his feet.

From "The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison

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