mucus vs mucous
Definitions
noun
- protective secretion of the mucous membranes; in the gut it lubricates the passage of food and protects the epithelial cells; in the nose and throat and lungs it can make it difficult for bacteria to penetrate the body through the epithelium
Examples
However, some patients seek help late in the season, when their symptoms have progressed from a runny nose to sticky yellow mucus with red, hot itchy and swollen eyes.
Cigarette smoking causes lung inflammation, which can lead to oxidative stress, emphysema, small airway fibrosis, mucus hypersecretion and progressive airflow limitation.
It splashed down into the shopping cart, splattering mucus in every direction.
Definitions
adjective
- of or secreting or covered with or resembling mucus
Examples
These are specially designed to cradle the fish securely in a comfortable position without wiping away a great deal of their protective mucous.
Although he had not howled once, his snarling and growling, combined with his thirst, had hoarsened his throat and dried the mucous membranes of his mouth so that he was incapable, except under the sheerest provocation, of further sound.
The mucous film covering his eyes was an infection that was treated successfully with antibiotic drops.
