Sputum
(noun)
Mucus and other matter that is coughed up from the lungs or airways.
Origin:
derived from the latin word sputare meaning "to spit".
Examples:
- The patient coughed up a small amount of sputum into the cup.
- The sputum was collected and analyzed for signs of infection.
- The patient with pneumonia was producing more sputum than usual.
- The lab technician examined the sputum sample under a microscope.
- The sputum has a greenish color, indicating presence of infection.