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demulcent

adjective
de·​mul·​cent | \ di-ˈməl-sənt How to pronounce demulcent (audio) \

Definition of demulcent

 (Entry 1 of 2)

: soothing

demulcent

noun

Definition of demulcent (Entry 2 of 2)

: a usually mucilaginous or oily substance (such as tragacanth) that can soothe or protect an abraded mucous membrane

Did You Know?

Adjective

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.

First Known Use of demulcent

Adjective

1732, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1732, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for demulcent

Adjective

Latin demulcent-, demulcens, present participle of demulcēre to soothe, from de- + mulcēre to soothe

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More Definitions for demulcent

demulcent

adjective
de·​mul·​cent | \ di-ˈməl-sᵊnt How to pronounce demulcent (audio) \

Medical Definition of demulcent

 (Entry 1 of 2)

: tending to soothe or soften demulcent expectorants which give a protective coating to the throat — Therapeutic Notes

demulcent

noun

Medical Definition of demulcent (Entry 2 of 2)

: a usually mucilaginous or oily substance (as tragacanth) capable of soothing or protecting an abraded mucous membrane

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