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salivate

verb

/ˈsæl əˌveɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of salivate

To produce and secrete saliva in the mouth, usually in response to the anticipation or presence of food.
"The baker's display of decadent pastries made customers salivate with anticipation."

Detailed meaning of salivate

When someone salivates, their salivary glands are stimulated, causing the release of saliva into the mouth. Salivation is an involuntary reflex controlled by the autonomic nervous system. It is commonly associated with the sensory perception of appetizing smells, tastes, or visual stimuli related to food. Salivating prepares the digestive system for food intake by moistening and lubricating the mouth, aiding in the initial stages of digestion. Additionally, salivation can occur as a conditioned response, such as when a person salivates in anticipation of a meal, even without any immediate sensory stimuli. Beyond its physiological function, the verb "salivate" can also be used metaphorically to describe an intense desire or anticipation for something pleasurable, similar to the way one anticipates and longs for a delicious meal.

Example sentences containing salivate

1. The aroma of freshly baked cookies made my mouth salivate.
2. The chef's exquisite plating skills caused everyone to salivate in anticipation.
3. The sight of the juicy steak on the grill made me salivate uncontrollably.
4. The advertisement for the new ice cream flavor made customers salivate with desire.
5. The delicious scent of the barbecue made our mouths salivate.
6. As the waiter brought out the sizzling fajitas, the whole table began to salivate.

History and etymology of salivate

The verb 'salivate' has its etymological roots in Latin. It can be traced back to the Latin word 'salivare,' which is derived from 'saliva,' meaning 'spittle' or 'saliva.' The term 'salivare' itself is related to 'sal,' which means 'salt.' Saliva, as a bodily fluid, contains various salts and enzymes that aid in the digestion of food. The verb 'salivate' has been used in English since the 17th century to describe the physiological process of producing and secreting saliva in the mouth, typically in response to the anticipation or presence of food. Its etymology underscores the connection between the production of saliva and the role it plays in the initial stages of digestion, where the presence of salts and enzymes is essential for breaking down food particles.

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Further usage examples of salivate

1. The tantalizing scent of the pizza made my mouth salivate even before the first bite.
2. The food critic's detailed description of the dish made readers salivate.
3. The thought of eating a ripe, juicy watermelon made my mouth salivate.
4. The chocolatier's rich truffles were so enticing that they made customers salivate on sight.
5. The chef's artful plating presentation made diners salivate with admiration before tasting the dish.
6. The aroma of freshly baked bread made her salivate.
7. When he saw the pizza, he couldn't help but salivate.
8. The chef's culinary skills can make anyone salivate.
9. The mention of chocolate cake made her salivate instantly.
10. The barbecue smoke made everyone salivate with hunger.
11. The thought of a juicy steak can make anyone salivate.
12. Watching cooking shows often makes me salivate.
13. The delicious scent of cinnamon rolls made me salivate.
14. The exotic spices in the dish made diners salivate.
15. A ripe watermelon can make your mouth salivate.
16. The sight of the buffet made guests salivate in anticipation.
17. The burger joint's ads always make me salivate.
18. The spicy curry made him salivate and reach for water.
19. A well-grilled cheese sandwich can make you salivate.
20. The sushi chef's creations never fail to make me salivate.
21. The dessert menu made everyone salivate with desire.
22. The lemonade's tartness caused me to salivate.
23. The waiter described the special dish, making us salivate.
24. The ice cream parlor's selection makes kids salivate.
25. The pungent aroma of the cheese board made guests salivate.