Phlegm

Noun

Definition: Thick mucus secreted in the respiratory passages, especially during a cold or other respiratory infection.

Definition: Lack of emotion or enthusiasm; apathy.

Synonyms: Mucus, Sputum

Antonyms: Enthusiasm, Passion

Examples:

She cleared her throat to expel the phlegm that had been bothering her.
Despite the excitement around the party, he approached it with a sense of phlegm.

Mnemonics:

Think of "phlegm" as "gum" for your respiratory system.
Imagine someone being unenthusiastic and unemotional, resembling a phlegmatic disposition.

Etymology:

Origin:

Phlegm comes from late Middle English via Old French "flegme" and Latin "phlegma," from Greek "phlegma" meaning "inflammation" or "clot."

Historical Usage:

The term "phlegm" has been used in the medical context as early as the 14th century to refer to the mucus in the respiratory system. Over time, it also obtained the metaphorical meaning of a lack of emotion or passion.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"In a phlegm"

Explanation:

Used to describe a person who remains calm and unaffected by external situations or emotions.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Phlegm is always associated with illness.

Explanation:

While it is commonly associated with respiratory infections, phlegm can also be present in a healthy individual's respiratory system. It acts as a protective mechanism to trap dust, pathogens, and other irritants.