Secretion
sɪˈkriːʃən
Definitions
The process of producing and releasing a substance from a cell or gland, or the substance itself.
sɪˈkriːʃən
The process or result of producing and releasing a substance.
The salivary glands are responsible for the secretion of saliva.
💡 Simply: Imagine your body making something like sweat or saliva. That's a secretion! It's something the body produces and lets out. So like, sweat is a secretion to cool you down.
👶 For kids: When your body makes something special, like spit or snot, that's a secretion!
More Examples
Increased cortisol secretion can be a sign of stress.
The plant's nectar secretion attracted many bees.
How It's Used
"The glands are responsible for the secretion of hormones."
"Plant nectar secretion attracts pollinators."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
From Latin *secretio* ('a separating, setting apart'), from *secernere* ('to separate, distinguish').
Used since the 17th century, initially related to the separation of substances and later specifically in biological contexts to describe bodily functions.
Memory tip
Think of 'secret' – a secretion is a 'secret' substance being released.
Word Origin
"To separate, set apart"