expectorant

noun

ex·​pec·​to·​rant ik-ˈspek-t(ə-)rənt How to pronounce expectorant (audio)
: an agent that promotes the discharge or expulsion of mucus from the respiratory tract
broadly : an antitussive agent
expectorant adjective

Examples of expectorant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This category includes drugs advertised as cough suppressants (e.g., dextromethorphan, which is supposed to lower the frequency of cough) or expectorants (e.g., guaifenesin, which theoretically helps make coughing more effective at getting the gunk out). — Keren Landman, Vox, 7 Dec. 2018 Both medications contain a cough suppressant, but Robitussin-DM also has an expectorant to help loosen mucus. — Rosanna Sutherby, Pharmd, Verywell Health, 8 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1782, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of expectorant was in 1782

Browse Nearby Words

expectingly
expectorant
expectorate
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Cite this Entry

“Expectorant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/expectorant. Accessed 2 Apr. 2025.

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Kids Definition

expectorant

noun
ex·​pec·​to·​rant ik-ˈspek-t(ə-)rənt How to pronounce expectorant (audio)
: an agent that promotes the discharge of mucus from the respiratory tract
expectorant adjective

Medical Definition

expectorant

1 of 2 adjective
ex·​pec·​to·​rant ik-ˈspek-t(ə-)rənt How to pronounce expectorant (audio)
: having the activity of an expectorant

expectorant

2 of 2 noun
: an agent that promotes the discharge or expulsion of mucus from the respiratory tract
broadly : antitussive

More from Merriam-Webster on expectorant

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about expectorant

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