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Saliva Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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saliva

[səˈlaɪvə ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

digestion

Saliva is the watery and usually somewhat frothy substance produced in the mouths of humans and animals that aids in the preliminary digestion of food.

Synonyms

drool, spit, spittle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
saliva

This term is typically used in a neutral or scientific context, such as in medical discussions or general descriptions of bodily functions.

  • The doctor took a sample of my saliva for testing
  • Saliva helps in the digestion of food
spit

Generally used to describe the action of forcefully ejecting saliva from the mouth. It can have a negative or informal tone and is often associated with strong emotions like disgust or anger.

  • He spit out the bad-tasting medicine
  • She spit on the ground in frustration
drool

This word is often used when referring to the action of saliva escaping from the mouth involuntarily, typically in a less formal or casual context. It sometimes has a somewhat negative or humorous connotation.

  • The baby started to drool as he fell asleep
  • He drooled on his pillow during the nap
spittle

A less common term, often used in literary or descriptive writing. It can sound more refined or old-fashioned and sometimes carries a slightly negative or unappealing connotation.

  • A small amount of spittle gathered at the corner of his mouth as he spoke
  • She wiped the spittle off her chin

Examples of usage

  • Excessive saliva can be a symptom of certain medical conditions.
  • The enzymes in saliva help break down food particles.
Context #2 | Noun

medical

Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health by rinsing away food particles and protecting the teeth from decay.

Synonyms

mouthwater, oral fluid.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
saliva

This is the most scientific and commonly used term. It's appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, especially in medical or educational settings.

  • The doctor took a sample of my saliva for testing
  • Our saliva helps to break down food
oral fluid

This term is more clinical and is often used in medical or technical contexts. It's less common in everyday speech.

  • The nurse collected oral fluid for the diagnostic test
  • Oral fluid testing is a quick and non-invasive procedure
mouthwater

Informal use often describing the sensation of increased saliva production usually in response to seeing or thinking about delicious food.

  • Just thinking about that pizza makes my mouth water
  • The smell of the barbecue caused mouthwatering

Examples of usage

  • Dry mouth can lead to a decrease in saliva production.
  • Some medications can cause a reduction in saliva flow.
Context #3 | Noun

scientific

In scientific studies, saliva is often used as a non-invasive sample for testing various biomarkers and diseases.

Synonyms

oral secretion, salivary fluid.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
saliva

Commonly used in everyday language and medical contexts to refer to the clear liquid produced in the mouth that helps with digestion and keeping the mouth moist.

  • The doctor took a sample of her saliva to test for infections
  • During the presentation, he felt his mouth go dry and wished for more saliva
oral secretion

Typically used in more formal or scientific contexts to describe any substances produced in the mouth, including saliva but also potentially other kinds of fluids.

  • The researchers studied the oral secretions of the patients to understand the disease better
  • Excessive oral secretions can signal underlying health issues

Examples of usage

  • Saliva testing has become more popular for its convenience and accuracy.
  • Researchers are exploring the potential of saliva as a diagnostic tool.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Produced by salivary glands, saliva contains enzymes that begin breaking down food right in your mouth.
  • Saliva helps protect your teeth from decay by neutralizing acids and helping wash away food particles.
  • An average adult produces about 0.5 to 1.5 liters of saliva each day!

Health

  • Saliva has antibacterial properties that help maintain oral hygiene and prevent infections.
  • Reduced saliva production can lead to dry mouth, causing difficulty in taste and swallowing, and increasing risks for dental issues.

Cultural References

  • In many cultures, saliva has been used in traditional medicine for its supposedly healing properties.
  • Some animals, like dogs, are known to drool, which can be a sign of excitement or anticipation of food.

Technology

  • Research into synthetic saliva is being conducted to help people with dry mouth resulting from various conditions.
  • Salivary diagnostics are gaining attention in medical research, allowing for non-invasive testing for diseases through saliva samples.

Origin of 'saliva'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'saliva', meaning 'spittle' or 'saliva'.
  • Related to the Greek word 'sialon', which also means saliva, showing its long historical use in different languages.

The word 'saliva' originates from the Latin word 'saliva', which means 'spittle' or 'moisture'. Saliva has been recognized for its importance in digestion and oral health since ancient times. In Greek and Roman medicine, saliva was believed to have healing properties. Today, saliva continues to be a subject of scientific research for its diagnostic and therapeutic potential.

See also: salivate.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,399, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.