Crossword Genius

In extremes of scarlatina, not quite breathing spit (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

saliva

'spit' is the definition.
(synonyms)

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for saliva that I've seen before include "Mouth secretion" , "Liquid that moistens the mouth" , "Spit" , "Fluid in the mouth" , "Mouth moisture, spittle" .)

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