Secreted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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secreted
[sษชหkriหtษชd ]
Definition
biological process
Secreted refers to the process by which substances are produced and discharged from a cell or gland. This biological function is essential for various bodily processes, including hormonal regulation and the elimination of waste. In many cases, secretion occurs in response to specific stimuli, allowing organisms to maintain homeostasis. Secreted substances can include hormones, enzymes, and other fluids necessary for life.
Synonyms
discharged, produced, released.
Examples of usage
- The pancreas secreted insulin in response to glucose levels.
- The salivary glands secreted saliva when food is present.
- During digestion, bile is secreted from the liver into the intestines.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Biology
- Many glands in the body, like sweat and salivary glands, secrete fluids essential for various bodily functions.
- Hormones such as insulin and adrenaline are secreted by particular glands and play vital roles in metabolism and stress responses.
- The body's ability to secrete substances is crucial for maintaining homeostasis, helping balance internal conditions.
Psychology
- The action of secretions can be linked to stress responses; for example, adrenaline is secreted when we feel scared or excited.
- Certain emotional states can lead to the secretion of different chemicals, influencing mood and behavior.
- The brain itself secretes neurotransmitters, affecting our feelings and decision-making processes.
Medicine
- In medical terminology, secreted substances can refer to bodily fluids involved in diagnoses, like hormones in the blood.
- Analyzing what is secreted by the body can help doctors assess health conditions, from diabetes to hormonal imbalances.
- Sometimes, the term is used in describing diseases, where abnormal secretion can indicate pathological conditions.
Chemistry
- In chemistry, secreted can refer to the release of substances from a system, akin to how plants release oxygen.
- The study of how compounds are secreted can lead to advancements in pharmaceuticals, including targeted drug delivery.
- Certain organisms can secrete toxins as a defense mechanism, showcasing a fascinating adaptation in nature.
Origin of 'secreted'
Main points about word origin
- The word originated from the Latin 'secretus', meaning 'separate' or 'set apart', hinting at hidden things.
- This term has roots in the Old French word 'secreter', which also means to keep something hidden or to conceal.
- The common use of 'secret' in English emerged in the late Middle Ages, emphasizing the idea of keeping things hidden.
The word 'secreted' originates from the Latin word 'secretus', which means 'separated or set apart'. This term is derived from the verb 'secernere', meaning 'to separate'. In biological contexts, secretion is crucial for the functioning of various bodily systems. As scientific understanding of cellular processes grew, especially in the 19th century, the term gained prominence in medical and biological literature. The concept of secretion is fundamental in physiology, emphasizing the role of glands and cells in maintaining life processes. Over time, the use of 'secreted' expanded into various scientific disciplines, including biochemistry and endocrinology, solidifying its importance in the study of living organisms.