Phlegm (?), n. [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.] 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.