What is "sputa"

Sputum \Spu"tum\ (sp[=u]"t[u^]m), n.; pl. Sputa (-t[.a]). [L., from spuere, sputum, to spit.] That which is expectorated; a salival discharge; spittle; saliva.

n. (plural of sputum English)

1. n. expectorated matter; saliva mixed with discharges from the respiratory passages; in ancient and medieval physiology it was believed to cause sluggishness [syn: phlegm]

2. [also: sputa (pl)]

See sputum