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Excretions Meaning: Definition and Examples

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excretions

[ɪkˈskrɪʃənz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

biological process

Excretions refer to the waste products that are discharged from the body of an organism. This includes substances like urine, feces, and sweat, which are expelled to maintain homeostasis and remove harmful substances from the body.

Synonyms

discharge, elimination, waste.

Examples of usage

  • The body's excretions help regulate water balance.
  • Kidneys play a key role in the excretion of waste.
  • Animals have various methods of excretion based on their physiology.

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • All animals excrete waste to get rid of substances their bodies don't need.
  • Human excretions include urine, feces, and sweat, each playing important roles in keeping the body healthy.
  • Some animals, like birds, excrete uric acid, which allows them to save water.

Health

  • The color and consistency of excretions can provide vital clues about a person's health.
  • Regular movement and healthy diet can positively influence the efficiency and nature of bodily excretions.
  • Certain medical conditions can affect how the body processes waste, leading to changes that may need attention.

Environment

  • Human waste management is crucial for public health and environmental protection.
  • Animal excretions contribute to soil fertility and plant growth, playing an essential role in ecosystems.
  • The decomposition of excretions influences nutrient cycles in nature.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Many cultures have specific practices and beliefs regarding waste management and sanitation.
  • In ancient times, some societies viewed waste as a resource rather than a problem, using it to enhance soil.

Literature

  • Excretions are metaphorically used in literature to discuss themes of purification and the rejection of the unnecessary.
  • Many classic works explore the human condition through the lens of bodily functions, illustrating the connection to life and mortality.

Origin of 'excretions'

The word 'excretion' comes from the Latin term 'excretio', which means 'a separating or discharging'. This Latin term is derived from the verb 'excerere', meaning 'to separate' or 'to throw out'. In the early 17th century, the term began to be used in the context of biology and medicine to refer to the process by which organisms remove waste materials from their bodies. Over time, 'excretion' has become an important concept in various scientific fields, especially in physiology and ecology, as it relates to how living organisms maintain their internal balance and the impact of waste on the environment.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,443, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.