secretion

noun

se·​cre·​tion si-ˈkrē-shən 

1

a

: the process of segregating, elaborating, and releasing some material either functionally specialized (such as saliva) or isolated for excretion (such as urine)

b

: a product of secretion formed by an animal or plant

especially : one performing a specific useful function in the organism

2

[secrete entry 2] : the act of hiding something : concealment

secretionary

si-ˈkrē-shə-ˌner-ē 

adjective

Synonyms

• caching
• concealment
• hiding
• stashing

Examples of secretion in a Sentence

the secretion of stomach acids

root secretions that repel insects

Recent Examples on the Web

This best-selling serum contains snail secretion, which works wonders for skin hydration and can even reduce inflammation. —Kat Romero, Rolling Stone, 10 Oct. 2024

If these bug secretions escape our awareness, what other insect products are hidden in plain sight? —Barrett Klein, Smithsonian Magazine, 15 Oct. 2024

Calcium may help increase the secretion of incretins, which are hormones that help reduce appetite.18 Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium.19 Calcium Getting calcium from foods is generally better than getting it from supplements. —Trang Tran, Pharmd, Verywell Health, 18 Oct. 2024

Tongkat ali root improved insulin secretion in mice and helped regulate high blood sugar.10 Research in humans is necessary to confirm these results. —Melissa Nieves, Verywell Health, 9 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French sécrétion, from Latin secretion-, secretio separation, from secernere to separate — more at secret

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing secretion

• hyper-secretion
• internal secretion

Kids Definition

secretion

noun

se·​cre·​tion si-ˈkrē-shən 

1

a

: the process of giving off a substance (as saliva)

b

: a substance produced and given off by a gland

especially : one (as an enzyme) that performs a specific useful function in the body

2

: concealment sense 1

Medical Definition

secretion

noun

se·​cre·​tion si-ˈkrē-shən 

1

: the process of segregating, elaborating, and releasing some material either functionally specialized (as saliva) or isolated for excretion (as urine)

2

: a product of secretion formed by an animal or plant

especially : one performing a specific useful function in the organism