EXPECTORATION Meaning and
Definition
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Expectoration is a noun derived from the verb "expectorate," which refers to the act of forcefully expelling mucus, phlegm, or other foreign substances from the throat and respiratory system through coughing or spitting. Expectoration primarily occurs as a natural physiological response to various respiratory conditions, such as the common cold, bronchitis, or pneumonia. This process aims to eliminate excess mucus that accumulates in the airways, aiding in clearing the respiratory passages and facilitating breathing.
The term "expectoration" is often associated with the act of coughing up and spitting out sputum, which can vary in consistency and color depending on the underlying condition. While expectoration can be a normal and necessary process in the body's defense against respiratory infections, its excessive or prolonged occurrence can indicate an underlying health issue that requires medical attention.
In medical settings, healthcare professionals may monitor and analyze the characteristics of expectorated sputum, such as color, consistency, and odor, to help diagnose respiratory diseases and guide appropriate treatments. Medications, such as expectorants, are sometimes prescribed to facilitate expectoration by loosening and thinning mucus in the airways. Furthermore, maintaining proper hydration and conducting respiratory hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing and covering the mouth while coughing or sneezing, can help minimize the spread of infectious agents associated with expectorated materials.
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1. Sputum; mucus and other fluids formed in the air-passages and expelled by coughing. 2. Spitting; the expelling from the mouth of saliva, mucus, and other material from the air-passages.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The act of discharging matter from the air-passages or lungs; the phlegm or mucus ejected by coughing.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for EXPECTORATION
Etymology of EXPECTORATION
The word "expectoration" comes from the Latin word "expectoratio", which is derived from the verb "expectorare". This Latin word is a combination of "ex" meaning "out" and "pector", which means "chest" or "lungs". Therefore, "expectoration" originally referred to the act of expelling mucus or phlegm from the lungs or respiratory passages.
Similar spelling words for EXPECTORATION
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