[f. prec. vb.: see -ATION.]
1. The action or process of expectorating; discharge of phlegm from the chest by coughing, etc.
1672. Sir T. Browne, Lett. to Friend, xv. (1881), 138. Expectoration and spitting out.
1793. Beddoes, Consumpt., 134. Even when the expectoration … goes on favourably.
1826. Scott, Woodst., v. A slight expectoration, just like what one makes before beginning a long speech.
1834. J. Forbes, Laennec’s Dis. Chest, 84. The varying secretion and expectoration of the pearly sputa.
1860. Emerson, Cond. Life, Behav., Wks. (Bohn), II. 382. In the pews of the churches [are] little placards … against … expectoration.
fig. 1816. Scott, Antiq., xxii. This expectoration of spleen was suddenly interrupted.
2. concr. Expectorated matter; a quantity of it.
1817. Med. Jrnl., XVII. 557. A considerable expectoration mixed with blood.
1843. Abdy, Water Cure, 31. Slimy glutinous expectoration frequently.
1879. Khory, Princ. Med., 40. Expectoration may contain mucus, pus, or blood.
