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View synonyms for sputum

sputum

[ spyoo-tuhm ]

noun

, plural spu·ta [spyoo, -t, uh].
  1. matter, as saliva mixed with mucus or pus, expectorated from the lungs and respiratory passages.


sputum

/ ˈspjuːtəm /

noun

  1. a mass of salivary matter ejected from the mouth
  2. saliva ejected from the mouth mixed with mucus or pus exuded from the respiratory passages, as in bronchitis or bronchiectasis
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


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Word History and Origins

Origin of sputum1

1685–95; < Latin spūtum, noun use of neuter of spūtus, past participle of spuere to spit, equivalent to spū- variant stem + -tus past participle suffix
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Word History and Origins

Origin of sputum1

C17: from Latin: spittle, from spuere to spit out
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Compare Meanings

How does sputum compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

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Example Sentences

Invented in 1983, PCR is a multi-step test to detect infectious agents, including viruses in humans, using a sample of sputum or other genetic material.

Third, the virus could not be found in sputum, further supporting the clear observation that airborne spread does not occur.

It, or a similar bacillus, is sometimes found in the sputum of gangrene of the lung.

It is to be remembered, however, that a few of these bacteria may reach the sputum from the upper air-passages.

It is sometimes met with in the sputum of catarrhal pneumonia, bronchitis, and tuberculosis.

Diplococci without capsules are common in the sputum, but have no special significance.

It is especially useful with cultures upon serum media, but is applicable also to the sputum.

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