phlegm Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun apathy demonstrated by an absence of emotional reactions
    stolidity; impassiveness; unemotionality; impassivity; indifference; emotionlessness.
  2. noun expectorated matter; saliva mixed with discharges from the respiratory passages; in ancient and medieval physiology it was believed to cause sluggishness
    sputum.
  3. noun inactivity; showing an unusual lack of energy
    flatness; languor; lethargy; sluggishness.
    • the general appearance of sluggishness alarmed his friends

WordNet

Phlegm noun
Etymology
F. phlegme, flegme, L. phlegma, fr. Gr. a flame, inflammation, phlegm, a morbid, clammy humor in the body, fr. to burn. Cf. Phlox, Flagrant, Flame, Bleak, a., and Fluminate.
Definitions
  1. One of the four humors of which the ancients supposed the blood to be composed. See Humor. Arbuthnot.
  2. (Physiol.) Viscid mucus secreted in abnormal quantity in the respiratory and digestive passages.
  3. (Old Chem.) A watery distilled liquor, in distinction from a spirituous liquor. Crabb.
  4. Sluggishness of temperament; dullness; want of interest; indifference; coldness.
    They judge with fury, but they write with phlegm. Pope.

Webster 1913