[phlegm] n [ME fleume, fr. MF, fr. LL phlegmat-, phlegma, fr. Gk, flame, inflammation, phlegm, fr. phlegein to burn--more at black] (13c) 1: the one of the four humors in early physiology that was considered to be cold and moist and to cause sluggishness
2: viscid mucus secreted in abnormal quantity in the respiratory passages 3 a: dull or apathetic coldness or indifference b: intrepid coolness or calm fortitude -- phlegmy adj