saliva

noun

sa·​li·​va sə-ˈlī-və 

: a slightly alkaline secretion of water, mucin, protein, salts, and often a starch-splitting enzyme (such as ptyalin) that is secreted into the mouth by salivary glands, lubricates ingested food, and often begins the breakdown of starches

Synonyms of saliva

• drool
• spit
• spittle

Examples of saliva in a Sentence

our mouths filled with saliva when we smelled the delicious dinner

Recent Examples on the Web

According to policy language published by the IOC, athletes seeking to compete in women’s events at the Olympics must undergo a one-time screening test, conducted through collection of blood or saliva or with a cheek swab. —Sara Germano, Sportico.com, 27 Mar. 2026

Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candy to stimulate saliva (xylitol-containing). —CBS News, 27 Mar. 2026

The test requires screening through saliva, a cheek swab or a blood sample. —Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 27 Mar. 2026

Blood and saliva sampling to measure immune biomarkers and examine how space alters the immune system. —Matthew Glasser, ABC News, 26 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for saliva

• godiva
• conjunctiva
• conjunctivae

Kids Definition

saliva

noun

sa·​li·​va sə-ˈlī-və 

: a fluid containing water, protein, salts, and often a starch-splitting enzyme that is secreted into the mouth by salivary glands

Medical Definition

saliva

noun

sa·​li·​va sə-ˈlī-və 

: a slightly alkaline secretion of water, mucin, protein, salts, and often a starch-splitting enzyme (as ptyalin) that is secreted into the mouth by salivary glands, lubricates ingested food, and often begins the breakdown of starches