n.
Pronunciation: ' flem
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English fleume, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin phlegmat-, phlegma, from Greek, flame, inflammation, phlegm, from phlegein to burn ― more at BLACK
Date: 13th century
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 \ ' fle-m ē \ adjective