Word of the Day

: April 21, 2013

demulcent

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adjective dih-MULL-sunt

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What It Means

: soothing

demulcent in Context

Honey has a demulcent property that is thought to be effective in relieving sore throats and coughs.

"Chickweed (Stellaria media) has a demulcent effect on the stomach, which can help to suppress appetite when prepared as tea." - From an article by Barbara Fahs in Big Island Weekly (Hilo, Hawaii), January 2, 2013

Did You Know?

"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.