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From the M-W Editors
demulcent was our Word of the Day on 04/21/2013. Hear the podcast!
Theme music by Joshua Stamper ©2006 New Jerusalem Music/ASCAP
Did You Know?
Demulcent derives from the Latin verb demulcēre, meaning "to soothe." Demulcēre in turn comes from a combination of the prefix de- and mulcēre, an earlier verb that also means "to soothe." As an adjective, demulcent often applies to the soothing nature of some medicines, but you can also use it to describe such things as a soothing voice or a soothing demeanor. The noun demulcent is used for a gelatinous or oily substance that is capable of soothing inflamed or abraded mucous membranes and protecting them from further irritation.
Origin and Etymology of demulcent
Latin demulcent-, demulcens, present participle of demulcēre to soothe, from de- + mulcēre to soothe
demulcent
Definition of demulcent
: a usually mucilaginous or oily substance (such as tragacanth) that can soothe or protect an abraded mucous membrane
First Known Use of demulcent
1732
Medical Dictionary
Medical Definition of demulcent
: tending to soothe or soften demulcent expectorants which give a protective coating to the throat—Therapeutic Notes
demulcent
Medical Definition of demulcent
: a usually mucilaginous or oily substance (as tragacanth) capable of soothing or protecting an abraded mucous membrane
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