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

saliva

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.

Other Word Forms

• salivary 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

In nature, dIgA is produced as part of the immune system and is released into tears, saliva and mucus as an early defense against pathogens.

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One previous piece of research on Neanderthal DNA also showed that modern humans and Neanderthals shared an oral microbe - a type of bacteria found in our saliva.

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I practically choke on my own saliva—the lines, edges, and indentations of my palm pattern are now crackling orange, like embers on a grill.

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Its mouth hung open, dripping slimy trails of saliva.

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When keratin interacts with the minerals found in saliva, it forms a coating that closely replicates the composition and protective function of natural enamel.

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