secretion — a process by which substances are produced and discharged from a cell, gland, or organ
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a process by which substances are produced and discharged from a cell, gland, or organ
Pronunciation (IPA): /sɪˈkriːʃən/
Example Sentences
- The vampire's saliva secretion had mysterious healing properties that made dentists jealous.
- Tears are a natural secretion that helps keep our eyes moist and clean.
- The spy's secret weapon was actually controlling his sweat secretion to send Morse code messages.
secretion
NOUN[/sɪˈkriːʃən/]
a process by which substances are produced and discharged from a cell, gland, or organ
The pine tree slowly releases a golden secretion of sticky resin from its bark.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Derived from Latin, the word evolved from the sense of 'to separate and conceal' to develop the meaning 'to secrete or discharge'. The root reflects the idea of setting apart or hiding something away, which became associated with biological processes involving the discharge of substances from cells or glands.
Breakdown
secretus (separated, hidden, from Latin secernere meaning to separate) + -ion (noun suffix forming abstract nouns of action or result).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The vampire's saliva secretion had mysterious healing properties that made dentists jealous.”
“Tears are a natural secretion that helps keep our eyes moist and clean.”
“The spy's secret weapon was actually controlling his sweat secretion to send Morse code messages.”
“The pancreatic secretion of digestive enzymes is essential for proper digestion.”
📚Related Words
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