saliva

noun

sa·​li·​va sə-ˈlī-və How to pronounce saliva (audio)
Synonyms of salivanext
: 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

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Examples of saliva in a Sentence

our mouths filled with saliva when we smelled the delicious dinner
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Allergens are proteins that are found in dog saliva, dander and urine. — Madeline Gunderson, USA Today, 2 July 2026 The virus is shed in wild bird saliva, nasal secretions and feces, so even droppings near the coop can carry it. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 2 July 2026 Does the alpha-gal in a tick’s saliva piggyback on some virus or antigen that sensitizes people to it? — Burkhard Bilger, New Yorker, 29 June 2026 The attempt to slim his face caused serious complications, and he was left with saliva buildup, scar tissue, and chronic pain. — Louis Peitzman, Entertainment Weekly, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for saliva

Word History

Etymology

Latin

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of saliva was in the 15th century

Rhymes for saliva

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Browse Nearby Words

salite
saliva
salival
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Cite this Entry

“Saliva.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/saliva. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

saliva

noun
sa·​li·​va sə-ˈlī-və How to pronounce saliva (audio)
: 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 How to pronounce saliva (audio)
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on saliva

Nglish: Translation of saliva for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about saliva

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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