Secretion: meaning, definitions and examples

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.