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Secretion Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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secretion

[sษชหˆkriหสƒษ™n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

medical

The process of producing and releasing a substance from a cell, gland, or organ for a specific function in the body.

Synonyms

discharge, excretion, release.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
secretion

This word is mostly used in a biological or medical context to describe substances produced and released by cells or glands in the body.

  • The secretion of hormones is a vital process for bodily functions
  • Saliva secretion helps in the digestion of food
excretion

This term is specific to biological and medical contexts, used to describe the elimination of waste products from the body.

  • The excretion of waste through urine is an essential bodily function
  • Sweat is an example of excretion that helps regulate body temperature
discharge

This term can be used in both medical and general contexts. Medically, it often refers to fluids released from the body, sometimes indicating an infection or other medical condition. In a general context, it can describe any substance being released, often in large amounts.

  • The patient had a nasal discharge due to a cold
  • The factory was fined for the illegal discharge of waste into the river
release

This is a general term that can be used in various contexts, including medical, biological, and everyday language to describe the act of setting something free or letting it go.

  • The release of endorphins during exercise improves mood
  • The new album release was celebrated by fans worldwide

Examples of usage

  • Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas and released into the bloodstream through the process of secretion.
  • Exocrine glands secrete enzymes through the process of secretion to aid in digestion.
  • The secretion of tears helps to keep the eyes lubricated and clean.
Context #2 | Noun

biology

The process of producing and releasing a substance by a plant or animal for various functions, such as defense or communication.

Synonyms

emission, excretion, exudation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
secretion

Commonly used in biological or medical contexts to describe the process by which substances are produced and released from glands or cells.

  • The secretion of insulin by the pancreas helps regulate blood sugar levels.
  • Saliva is a secretion that aids in digestion.
exudation

Often used in scientific or technical contexts to describe the slow discharge of fluid, such as sap from plants or fluids from wounds. It tends to have a neutral or slightly negative connotation.

  • The exudation of resin from the tree trunk was observed after it was wounded.
  • Wound exudation can be an indication of infection.
emission

Typically refers to the release or discharge of substances, especially gases or radiation, into the environment. Often used in environmental science and technology.

  • The factory's emission of harmful chemicals has been a major environmental concern.
  • Car emissions are a significant source of air pollution.
excretion

Used in biological or medical contexts to describe the process by which waste products are eliminated from an organism's body. It has a neutral to slightly negative connotation due to its association with waste.

  • The kidneys play a crucial role in the excretion of metabolic waste products.
  • Perspiration and urination are forms of excretion.

Examples of usage

  • Bees use the secretion of pheromones to communicate with other members of the hive.
  • Certain plants secrete toxins as a defense mechanism against herbivores.
  • The secretion of nectar by flowers attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Many cells in the body produce and release important hormones that help control things like growth and stress.
  • Secretion can occur in various organs, such as glands, which are responsible for making and sending out substances like sweat or saliva.
  • In digestion, the stomach secretes acids and enzymes that help break down food into usable nutrients.

Medicine

  • Certain diseases can affect how well the body can secrete necessary substances, which may lead to health issues.
  • Doctors often study secretion patterns to understand hormonal imbalances, which can inform treatment plans for illnesses.
  • The secretion of neurotransmitters in the brain is crucial for mood regulation and is targeted in many psychological therapies.

Environmental Science

  • Plants also undergo secretion, releasing chemicals that might attract pollinators or repel herbivores.
  • In many ecosystems, the secretions from plants and soil microorganisms play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and soil health.
  • Algal blooms in water bodies can result from nutrient secretion, leading to changes in aquatic ecosystems and oxygen depletion.

Psychology

  • Emotional states can influence hormone secretion, showing how feelings can impact physical health.
  • Stress can trigger the secretion of cortisol, which affects many bodily functions including metabolism and immune response.
  • Research shows that positive social interactions can enhance the secretion of oxytocin, often called the 'bonding hormone.'

Technology

  • Biotechnology harnesses the principles of natural secretion processes to create synthetic hormones and therapeutics.
  • The study of secretion at the molecular level can lead to advancements in drug delivery systems and treatments.
  • Innovative devices are being developed that mimic natural secretion processes for controlled release of medicines.

Origin of 'secretion'

The word 'secretion' originated from the Latin word 'secretio', which means 'separation'. In the medical context, the term was first used in the 17th century to describe the process of releasing substances by glands or cells. Over time, the term has been widely adopted in both medical and biological fields to refer to the production and release of specific substances for various functions in organisms.

See also: secrecy, secret, secretary, secrete, secretive, secretively, secretly.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,168 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.