Mucus (Noun)
Meaning
Protective secretion of the mucous membranes; in the gut it lubricates the passage of food and protects the epithelial cells; in the nose and throat and lungs it can make it difficult for bacteria to penetrate the body through the epithelium.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The production of mucus in the stomach helps protect its lining from the acidic digestive juices that break down food.
- In people with respiratory conditions, excessive mucus can clog the airways and make breathing difficult.
- The primary function of mucus in the nasal passages is to trap dust, pollen, and other foreign particles that try to enter the lungs.
- Mucus is an effective barrier against bacteria and other pathogens, but when an infection occurs, the membrane can become inflamed, leading to increased mucus production.
- Clearing excess mucus from the lungs is essential in preventing lung infections and maintaining healthy breathing patterns.