よだれ

よだれ refers to saliva that drips from the mouth, whether involuntarily (during sleep, in babies) or in response to appetizing food.

Writing

Can be written as 涎(よだれ), but hiragana is far more common.

Common expressions

• よだれが出(で)る: to drool
• よだれを垂(た)らす: to drool, to dribble
• よだれ掛(か)け: bib (for babies)
• よだれが出(で)るほどおいしい: so delicious it makes you drool

Usage

Often used figuratively to express strong desire or craving. よだれが出(で)る can mean 'to be mouth-watering' when talking about desirable food or even coveted objects.

Similar words

• 唾(つば)/唾液(だえき): saliva (medical/neutral; not specifically drool)
• 涎(よだれ)を垂(た)らす is more vivid and informal than 唾液(だえき)が出(で)る