So now I'm wondering: In that phrase, what is the actual noun? I'd been thinking that in this case, "mucous" describes discharge, so the adjectival form should be used, as in "mucous membrane." But I respect Debo's experience, and I'm wondering now if "mucus" would be correct there.

What do you think?

[ 02-04-2004: Message edited by: nancyellen ]

Dorland's has cervical mucus, mucus extravasation phenomenon, mucus retention cyst, and sperm-cervical mucus contact test but a host of mucous phrases.

Interestingly, I didn't see mucus fistula (although I could have missed it) in either reference.

I can see some logic to Dorland's use of mucus in the phrases above but no logic to the distinctions made by Stedman's. I'd use mucous in all adjectival senses and mucus only when you are talking about the slimy icky stuff.

So, mucous membranes (the membranes secrete mucus but are not made of mucus) but mucus impaction (a wad of mucus), mucus plug (a plug made of mucus), mucus discharge (it's running out the nose or cervix), mucus blanket (a blanket of mucus), and mucus fistuula (a tract through which mucus passes). I would consider all of these compound nouns.

However, as many references as you consult, that's how many opinions you'll get on this one. It's pretty much a subjective decision. The above are just my opinion and my distinctions.

[ 02-04-2004: Message edited by: ebadrake ]

[ 02-04-2004: Message edited by: ebadrake ]

Someone on "another MT site" asked about mucusy/mucousy discharge, and got several answers, split about 50-50 between mucusy and mucousy. I thought that the addition of the "y" made it an adjective already, so I said it'd be mucusy.

I'd love to hear other opinions on this.

Duh! I already started a new thread, but I realize now an old thread moves to the top of the list when it's been posted. I should have kept them together, but to avoid any further confusion (if only in my muddled brain), I'm going to leave it like I have it. Sorry Eagle Eye.

Edited to admit to my confusion. I just got up and haven't had coffee yet (is that a good excuse?)

[ 02-07-2004: Message edited by: ebadrake ]