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

• 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

Rewiring light for health In healthcare, the method could enable earlier, more accurate detection of disease biomarkers in blood, saliva, or urine. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 26 Aug. 2025

The kits use proprietary technology to detect disease indicators in urine and saliva. —Forbes Asia Team, Forbes.com, 25 Aug. 2025

Each footstep sent up clouds of dust and ash, coating everything, including my mouth and teeth, in fine grit, blackening my snot and saliva. —River Selby august 25, Literary Hub, 25 Aug. 2025

The virus also can spread by direct contact between rabbits through body fluids such as feces, saliva and urine. —Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 22 Aug. 2025

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