Mucus

(mü'küs.) [L., slime.] (Physiol.) Afluid in the animal body, secreted by the mucous membrane, and best exemplified by that from the nasal membrane. It covers the lining membranes of all the cavities which open externally, such as those of the mouth, nose, lungs, intestinal canal, urinary pa ages, ., serving to moisten and defend them. It is viscid; apparently becomes fluid in water, but is not di olved by it. It maybe repeatedly dried and moistened without sensibly changing its properties. When boiled in water it becomes tough, but on cooling regains its former condition; le than one per cent. of it gives a ropine to water. It is said to consist of the scales of the epithelium, or cuticle, which continually wear off, and mix with a watery secretion. [s. 623]