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Webster 1913 Edition

Mucus

Mu′cus

(mū′kŭs)
,
Noun.
[L.
mucus
,
muccus
; cf.
mucere
to be moldy or musty, Gr.
μύξα
mucus, and Skr.
muc
to release. Cf.
Match
for striking fire,
Moist
,
Mucilage
.]
1.
(Physiol.)
A viscid fluid secreted by mucous membranes, which it serves to moisten and protect. It covers the lining membranes of all the cavities which open externally, such as those of the mouth, nose, lungs, intestinal canal, urinary passages, etc.
2.
(Physiol.)
Any other animal fluid of a viscid quality, as the synovial fluid, which lubricates the cavities of the joints; – improperly so used.
3.
(Bot.)
A gelatinous or slimy substance found in certain algae and other plants.

Webster 1828 Edition

Mucus

MU'CUS

,
Noun.
[L. See Mucilage and Muck.]
1.
A viscid fluid secreted by the mucous membrane, which it serves to moisten and defend. It covers the lining membranes of all the cavities which open externally, such as those of the mouth, nose, lungs, intestinal canal, urinary passages, &c. It differs from gelatine.
In the action of chewing, the mucus mixeth with the ailment.
2.
This term has also been applied to other animal fluids of a viscid quality, as the synovial fluid, which lubricates the cavities of the joints.

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