PHLEGMS

Noun

phlegms

plural of phlegm

Source: Wiktionary

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.)

Definition: Viscid mucus secreted in abnormal quantity in the respiratory and digestive passages.

3. (Old Chem.)

Definition: 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.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition