'Phlegm' definitions:

Definition of 'phlegm'

From: WordNet
noun
Apathy demonstrated by an absence of emotional reactions [syn: emotionlessness, impassivity, impassiveness, phlegm, indifference, stolidity, unemotionality]
noun
Expectorated matter; saliva mixed with discharges from the respiratory passages; in ancient and medieval physiology it was believed to cause sluggishness [syn: phlegm, sputum]
noun
Inactivity; showing an unusual lack of energy; "the general appearance of sluggishness alarmed his friends" [syn: languor, lethargy, sluggishness, phlegm, flatness]

Definition of 'Phlegm'

From: GCIDE
  • Phlegm \Phlegm\ (fl[e^]m), n. [F. phlegme, flegme, L. phlegma, fr. Gr. fle`gma a flame, inflammation, phlegm, a morbid, clammy humor in the body, fr. fle`gein 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. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. (Physiol.) Viscid mucus secreted in abnormal quantity in the respiratory and digestive passages. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. (Old Chem.) A watery distilled liquor, in distinction from a spirituous liquor. --Crabb. [1913 Webster]
  • 4. Sluggishness of temperament; dullness; want of interest; indifference; coldness. [1913 Webster]
  • They judge with fury, but they write with phlegm. --Pope. [1913 Webster]