What does "gargle" mean?

Gargle: To wash or rinse, as the mouth or throat, particular the latter, agitating the liquid (water or a medicinal preparation) by an expulsion of air from the lungs.

Additional senses

  1. 2.To warble; to sing as if gargling [Obs.] Waller.
  2. 3.A liquid, as water or some medicated preparation, used to cleanse the mouth and throat, especially for a medical effect.

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