PAL'ATE, n. [L. palatum, properly the arch or cope of heaven.] 1. The roof or upper part of the mouth. The glands in this part of the mouth secrete a mucous fluid, which lubricates the mouth and throat, and facilitates deglutition.2. Taste. Hard task to hit the palates of such guests.[This signification of the word originated in the opinion that the palate is the instrument of taste. This is a mistake. In itself it has no power of taste.]3. Mental relish; intellectual taste. Men of nice palates could not relish Aristotle, as dressed up by the schoolmen.PAL'ATE, v.t. To perceive by the taste. [Not used.]
|
