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.