Salivate/ˈsælɪveɪt/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Physical Response Describes an automatic, physical reaction, not just any production of saliva. Watching the chef prepare sushi made me salivate. Pro Tip 2/3Hunger Indicator Often indicates extreme hunger or craving, triggered by sensory perceptions. I started to salivate at the smell of the sizzling steak. Pro Tip 3/3Specific Triggers Used for situations where food or eating is directly referenced or implied. Just talking about lemonade can make you salivate.