Main Entry:

spu·tum

Pronunciation:

\ˈspyü-təm, ˈspü-\

Function:

noun

Inflected Form(s):

plural spu·ta \-tə\

Etymology:

Latin, from neuter of sputus, past participle of spuere to spit — more at spew

Date:

circa 1693

: expectorated matter especially from the air passages in diseases of the lungs, bronchi, or upper respiratory tract