Excrete Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฉ
excrete
[ษชksหkriหt ]
Definitions
biology
To discharge waste matter from the body, especially from the bowels; to eliminate waste products.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| excrete |
Used when referring to the process of eliminating waste products from a living organism, often in a biological or medical context.
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| eliminate |
Used more broadly to mean removing or getting rid of something, not necessarily a substance. It can be used in everyday language as well as in formal contexts.
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| expel |
Has a more forceful connotation and is often used when something or someone is being removed with effort or intent. It can be used in both physical and metaphorical contexts.
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| discharge |
Can refer to the release of substances, typically liquids or gases, from various sources such as factories, bodily organs, or natural bodies of water. It is also used in a medical context when a patient is released from care.
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Examples of usage
- The kidneys excrete waste products from the blood.
- Animals excrete urine to remove excess water and waste.
chemistry
To separate and eliminate substances from a body of liquid or gas.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| excrete |
Used in a biological or medical context when referring to the process of eliminating waste matter from the body.
|
| secrete |
Commonly used in a biological context to describe glands or cells producing and emitting substances such as hormones or enzymes.
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| release |
A general term for letting something go or setting something free, can be used in a variety of contexts including emotions, physical objects, or energy.
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| exude |
Describes the process of something oozing out (such as liquid, light, or even attitude) from a surface or person, usually in a noticeable manner.
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Examples of usage
- The air conditioning unit excretes excess moisture from the air.
- The kidneys excrete excess salts and toxins.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Biology
- Excretion is a vital biological process in all living organisms that helps maintain homeostasis by removing toxins.
- In humans, waste products are primarily excreted through the kidneys, with urine being a significant way the body eliminates excess substances.
Health
- Proper excretion is crucial for good health. Issues with this process can lead to various health problems, including kidney disease.
- Dietary fiber can help promote regular excretion by adding bulk to stools and aiding digestion.
Cultural Perspectives
- In many cultures, discussions about excretion are often taboo, yet they are essential to health and biology education.
- Art and literature from ancient times often depicted themes of bodily functions, highlighting the universal significance of excretion.
Evolution
- The process of excretion has evolved over millions of years, with aquatic animals excreting waste directly into water, while terrestrial animals developed more complex systems.
- Different species have adapted unique methods of excretion, such as birds eliminating uric acid as a solid, minimizing water loss.
Origin of 'excrete'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'excretus', meaning 'to separate' or 'to dig out', reflecting the process of removing waste.
- In 16th century English, the term began to take on the modern meaning of eliminating refuse from the body.
The word 'excrete' originated from the Latin word 'excretus', past participle of 'excernere', meaning 'to sift out, discharge'. The term has been used in biology and chemistry to describe the process of eliminating waste products from the body or separating substances from a liquid or gas.