Salivary: meaning, definitions and examples
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salivary
[səˈlaɪvəri ]
Definition
anatomy, biology
Salivary refers to anything related to saliva, the watery liquid secreted in the mouths of humans and animals. This fluid plays a crucial role in the digestive process by aiding in the breakdown of food. Salivary glands are responsible for producing saliva and are located in various parts of the mouth. The term is commonly used in medical and biological contexts when discussing oral health or digestive functions.
Synonyms
oral, saliva-producing, salivary secretions.
Examples of usage
- Salivary glands secrete saliva.
- The salivary composition can indicate health.
- Salivary flow increases during meals.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'salivary' comes from the Latin word 'saliva', which means 'spit' or 'saliva'.
- The suffix '-ary' typically indicates a relationship to something, so 'salivary' means related to saliva.
- The use of 'salivary' in medical terminology dates back to the 19th century, reflecting advancements in understanding body functions.
Biology
- Human salivary glands produce about 1 to 2 liters of saliva each day to help digest food.
- Saliva contains enzymes like amylase that begin breaking down starches before food even reaches the stomach.
- Saliva is also crucial for oral health; it helps neutralize acids in the mouth and wash away food particles.
Health
- Salivary flow can be affected by hydration levels; not drinking enough water can lead to dry mouth.
- Certain medications can decrease saliva production, which may lead to difficulties in swallowing and tasting food.
- Saliva is an indicator of health; changes in its consistency or amount can signify underlying health issues.
Psychology
- The smell or thought of favorite foods can trigger the brain to increase saliva production, preparing the body for eating.
- People often experience a change in salivary flow when they are anxious or stressed, which can affect digestion.
- Research shows that the anticipation of eating can activate salivary glands, enhancing the overall eating experience.
Culture
- In some cultures, sharing food is shown through feeding someone directly, often leading to a moment where salivary exchange is naturally a part of the meal.
- Certain traditional recipes incorporate saliva (or saliva-like substances) as part of the cooking process, though not commonly discussed or documented.
- Expressions like ‘mouth-watering’ or ‘salivating’ reflect cultural associations with desire, appetite, and the pleasure of food.
Translations
Translations of the word "salivary" in other languages:
🇵🇹 salivar
🇮🇳 लार ग्रंथि
🇩🇪 Speichel-
🇮🇩 saliva
🇺🇦 слинний
🇵🇱 ślina
🇯🇵 唾液の
🇫🇷 salivaire
🇪🇸 salival
🇹🇷 tükürük
🇰🇷 타액의
🇸🇦 لعاب
🇨🇿 slinný
🇸🇰 slinný
🇨🇳 唾液的
🇸🇮 slinav
🇮🇸 sýru
🇰🇿 唾液
🇬🇪 სიყმაწვილის
🇦🇿 saliv
🇲🇽 salival