Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Expectorated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿค’
Add to dictionary

expectorated

[ษชkหˆspษ›k.tษ™.reษชt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

medical action

To expectorate means to expel phlegm or mucus from the throat or lungs by coughing or spitting. This action is commonly associated with respiratory conditions where excess mucus is produced. In a medical context, it often refers to the process of clearing the airways of unwanted secretions, making breathing easier. Individuals with colds, bronchitis, or other respiratory issues may need to expectorate frequently. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe the act of forcefully expressing or discharging something.

Synonyms

cough up, discharge, expel, spit out.

Examples of usage

  • The patient was advised to expectorate the mucus regularly.
  • Coughing helps to expectorate the phlegm from the lungs.
  • Doctors often recommend expectorants to aid in the expectoration process.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Medicine

  • Expectorating is often an important process for clearing airways in respiratory illnesses.
  • Doctors may ask patients to expectorate to assess the nature of their cough or lung condition.
  • Certain medications, called expectorants, are designed to soften mucus to make it easier to expel.

Cultural References

  • In some cultures, expectorating in public spaces is frowned upon, while in others, it may be more accepted as a natural bodily function.
  • Expectoration can also be depicted in literature to enhance realism in character portrayal, particularly in gritty or health-focused narratives.

Health & Hygiene

  • Proper hygiene practices encourage individuals to expectorate into tissues or into their elbows to prevent the spread of germs.
  • Post-expectorated fluid should be disposed of properly to maintain cleanliness and reduce risk of infection.

Psychology

  • The act of expectorating can evoke strong feelings of relief or discomfort, depending on the context and individual experiences.
  • Patients may feel embarrassed about expectorating in public, which can affect their willingness to seek help for respiratory issues.

Origin of 'expectorated'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'expectorare', where 'ex-' means out and 'pectus' means chest.
  • It has been used in English since the 17th century, often in medical contexts.
  • The prefix 'ex-' suggests a release, while the root word connects it to the act of breathing or the chest.

The word 'expectorate' originates from the Latin 'expectorare,' which means 'to drive out from the chest.' This term is comprised of the prefix 'ex-' meaning 'out' and 'pectus' meaning 'chest.' It was adopted into English in the early 17th century, reflecting growing medical knowledge about respiratory diseases and their treatments at the time. The meaning has remained consistent, focusing on the action of expelling mucus or phlegm. The medical application of the term has been significant in the context of respiratory illnesses, where expectoration plays a crucial role in patient care and recovery.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,509 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.