The correct spelling of the phrase "watered mouth" is /ˈwɔːtəd maʊθ/. The spelling of the first word is "watered" with a double "t" because it is the past tense of the verb "to water." The second word, "mouth," is spelled as it sounds, with a clear "au" diphthong and a voiceless "th" sound at the end. Together, the phrase describes the sensation of producing saliva in the mouth, usually in response to seeing or smelling something appetizing.
Watered mouth is a colloquial expression used to describe an excessive production of saliva in the mouth, often triggered by the anticipation or sight of delicious food or drink. This heightened salivation response is commonly known as "mouth-watering" and is experienced by many people as a physiological response to sensory stimulation.
The term watered mouth derives its name from the imagery it evokes of the mouth being flooded or drenched with an increased flow of saliva, similar to the way plants get watered. It is often associated with a pleasurable or satisfying feeling, reflecting the desire to taste or consume the object that is causing the reaction.
Watered mouth is frequently linked to the sense of taste and is closely related to the appetite and the body's natural response to the enjoyment of food. The salivary glands, specifically the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands, are responsible for the production of saliva. When the brain detects the presence of appealing flavors or aromas, it sends signals to these glands, triggering an increased secretion of saliva. These signals can be stimulated by the sight, smell, or even the thought of food, indicating the mouth's response to the sensory cues.
Overall, watered mouth refers to the physiological reaction that occurs when the mouth becomes excessively salivated due to the enticement of food or drink, presenting a pleasant anticipation for the impending sensory experience.
The term "watered mouth" does not have a specific etymology as it is not a well-established and widely recognized phrase in the English language. However, based on the individual words "watered" and "mouth", one can make a reasonable guess regarding their meanings.
The word "watered" typically refers to something that has been moistened or saturated with water. In this context, it might suggest that the mouth mentioned is producing excessive saliva or that there is a strong desire for water or something to drink.
The word "mouth" refers to the opening through which food and drink enter the body, but it can also be used more figuratively to represent or symbolize desire, appetite, or the act of speaking.