Pronunciation: [flɛɡmˈatɪk] (IPA) 
Phlegmatic is a word that is commonly misspelled. It is pronounced /flɛɡˈmætɪk/ and comes from the Greek word phlegmatikos, which means "abounding in phlegm." The spelling of phlegmatic can be a bit tricky as the "ph" is pronounced as "f" and the "g" is soft, producing an "j" sound. The correct spelling helps convey the meaning of the word, which refers to a person who is calm, unemotional, and not easily excited.
Phlegmatic, an adjective derived from the ancient Greek word "phlegmatikos," refers to a personality or temperament characterized by a calm and unemotional disposition. A person who is described as phlegmatic tends to display a cool, composed, and often detached attitude towards life's circumstances. This temperament is believed to originate from the bodily humor "phlegm" in ancient Greek and Roman medical beliefs, which was thought to manifest as a cool and sluggish characteristic.
Those who possess a phlegmatic temperament are often regarded as level-headed, self-possessed, and undisturbed by external events. They are typically unhurried in their actions and processing of information, exhibiting a low-key and impassive demeanor. Phlegmatic individuals are known for their ability to remain unruffled in stressful situations, maintaining emotional stability and composure. They tend to be logical thinkers, cautiously contemplating decisions before taking action. While sometimes seen as aloof or uninvolved, they are reliable and steady contributors to both personal and professional environments, often bringing a sense of stability to their relationships and team dynamics.
In summary, "phlegmatic" describes someone who displays a serene and passive disposition, remaining composed and unaffected by external stimuli. This temperament is characterized by its level-headedness, deliberateness, and unflappable nature, providing a valuable presence of stability in various aspects of life.
• Watery.
• Relating to the heavy one of the four humors (see phlegm), and therefore calm, apathetic, unexcitable.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Abounding in phlegm; generating phlegm; dull; sluggish; heavy; not easily excited in action or passion.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "phlegmatic" has its origins in ancient Greek. It comes from the Greek word "phlegmatikos", which is derived from "phlegma", meaning "phlegm" or "slime". In ancient Greek medicine and philosophy, bodily fluids were associated with specific personality traits, and phlegm was believed to be associated with a calm and unemotional temperament. Over time, this idea was adopted into English, and "phlegmatic" came to describe someone who is impassive, calm, and composed.
