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

Their research revealed that keratin produces a protective coating that mimics the structure and function of natural enamel when it comes into contact with minerals in saliva.

From BBC

Other proposals under consideration could also see police allowed to rely on roadside saliva tests for evidence of drug-driving rather than blood tests, making it easier to prosecute suspects.

From BBC

It is mainly a respiratory disease, which can be transmitted through nose to nose contact and also through contact with saliva, urine, faeces and milk.

From BBC

Patients will be asked to submit more information and a saliva sample, with the overall aim of reducing the occurrence of the side effects in future, says the MHRA.

From BBC

He sent off a saliva sample in the post to be analysed.

From BBC