noun

der Schleim, -e

slime · mucus

The German word "Schleim" is a noun meaning "mucus" or "slime". It refers to the slimy secretion produced by mucous membranes, often in the respiratory system, as well as any sticky, viscous substance.

Components:

  • There are no smaller compound parts in "Schleim"; it is a base noun.

Similar words:

  • Rotz – nasal mucus (colloquial)
  • Speichel – saliva (spit)
  • Schleimhaut – mucous membrane (related term, combines "Schleim" + "Haut" (skin))

Differences:

  • "Schleim" specifically denotes the slimy secretion itself.
  • "Rotz" is more colloquial and often used specifically for nasal mucus, sometimes with a negative connotation.
  • "Speichel" is a different bodily fluid (saliva).
  • "Schleimhaut" refers to the tissue producing mucus, not the mucus itself.

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Examples

Der Schleim klebt an den Wänden.noun

The slime sticks to the walls.

Kinder finden den grünen Schleim sehr lustig.noun

Children find the green slime very funny.

Im Aquarium bewegt sich der Schleim langsam auf dem Boden.noun

In the aquarium the slime moves slowly along the bottom.

Der Arzt untersucht den weißen Schleim unter dem Mikroskop.noun

The doctor examines the white mucus under the microscope.

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