1819, from L., from Gk. smegma "a detergent," from smekhein "to wipe off, wipe clean, cleanse," from PIE base *(s)mei- "to rub" (cf. Czech smetana "cream").
Main Entry: smeg·ma Pronunciation: 'smeg-m& Function: noun : the secretion of a sebaceous gland; specifically: the cheesysebaceous matter that collects between the glans penis and the foreskin or around the clitoris and labia minora
smegma smeg·ma (směg'mə) n. A sebaceous secretion, especially the whitish cheesy secretion that collects under the prepuce of the penis or around the clitoris.