Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Excrement Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’ฉ
Add to dictionary

excrement

[หˆษ›kskrษชmษ™nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

waste material

Excrement refers to waste material that is eliminated from the body, such as feces or urine.

Synonyms

droppings, feces, waste.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
excrement

This word is very formal and scientific, often used in medical or biological contexts.

  • The laboratory analyzed the animal excrement to identify any diseases
feces

A more clinical term commonly used in medical contexts or scientific discussions.

  • The doctor requested a feces sample to test for parasites
waste

A broad term used in various contexts, including human or animal refuse, but also in a variety of other contexts like industrial waste. It is more general than other terms listed.

  • The city council is working on a better waste management plan
droppings

Often used when referring to animals, especially birds, in a less formal manner.

  • We found bird droppings on the car

Examples of usage

  • He cleaned up the dog's excrement from the yard.
  • The doctor asked for a sample of the patient's excrement for testing.
Context #2 | Noun

disgusting substance

Excrement can also refer to any disgusting or repulsive substance.

Synonyms

dung, filth, muck.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
excrement

Used in medical or scientific contexts. It's a more formal term for waste matter from the digestive tract.

  • The researchers collected animal excrement samples for the study
filth

Has a very negative connotation and is used to describe anything extremely dirty or disgusting. Often used more figuratively or in exaggerated complaints.

  • The room was covered in filth after the party
dung

Commonly used in agricultural or farming contexts, referring to animal waste.

  • The farmers use cow dung as a natural fertilizer for their crops
muck

Used to describe a mixture of mud and organic matter, and often used in casual or agricultural contexts.

  • The kids played in the muck by the riverbank

Examples of usage

  • She accidentally stepped in a pile of excrement on the sidewalk.
  • The smell of excrement filled the room.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Views

  • In many cultures, attitudes towards excrement can reflect broader views on hygiene and health.
  • Historically, some societies used animal waste as fertilizer, demonstrating an early understanding of agriculture.
  • In certain traditions, discussing bodily functions is considered taboo, influencing how related language evolves.

Science

  • Excrement consists of undigested food, bacteria, and cells shed from the intestinal lining.
  • Studying waste can reveal significant information about diet, health, and environmental changes.
  • The composition of excrement is used in medical diagnostics to understand gastrointestinal diseases.

Literature

  • Excrement often appears in literature as a symbol for waste and negative aspects of human nature.
  • Authors like Kafka have used it allegorically to explore themes of discomfort and identity.
  • In some poetry, bodily functions are expressed to highlight the rawness of human existence.

Psychology

  • How people perceive excrement can reflect psychological responses to control and cleanliness.
  • Freudian theories suggest that potty training experiences can shape personality traits later in life.
  • Disgust related to bodily waste can influence behavioral norms and lifestyle choices.

Origin of 'excrement'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'excrementum', meaning 'a product of being separated out'.
  • It didn't appear in English until the late 14th century, indicating a way to describe bodily waste more formally.
  • Related words include 'excrete', which means to separate and eliminate waste.

The word 'excrement' originated from the Latin word 'excrementum', meaning 'that which is discharged'. It has been used in the English language since the late 16th century. The concept of excrement has been an essential aspect of human biology and sanitation throughout history, with various cultures developing different methods of disposal and hygiene practices.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,170, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.