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

Tick saliva also contains a number of other immune-affecting compounds that can modify the immune system, says Pritt. — Alice Park, Time, 23 July 2026

Your saliva flow drops overnight, Atria says, allowing the fluoride from your toothbrush to stay on your teeth longer and better protect against cavities. — Maggie Ryan, Flow Space, 23 July 2026

The virus spreads primarily through the droppings and saliva of infected birds, meaning seabirds and other species that gather in large groups are at a greater risk. — Todd Symons, CNN Money, 22 July 2026

Per Mayo Clinic, Ebola is spread by body fluids, including saliva, sweat, blood and feces. — Adam England, PEOPLE, 20 July 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