verb (used without object), sal·i·vat·ed, sal·i·vat·ing.
- to produce saliva.
verb (used with object), sal·i·vat·ed, sal·i·vat·ing.
- to produce an excessive secretion of saliva in, as by mercurial poisoning.
verb
- (intr) to secrete saliva, esp an excessive amount
- (tr) to cause (a laboratory animal, etc) to produce saliva, as by the administration of mercury
v.1650s, “cause to produce saliva;” intransitive sense from 1680s, from Latin salivatus, past participle of salivare, from saliva (see saliva). Figurative use in reference to anticipation by 1965. Related: Salivated; salivating. v.
- To secrete or produce saliva.
- To produce excessive salivation in.