secretion

noun

se·​cre·​tion si-ˈkrē-shən How to pronounce secretion (audio)
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 adjective

Examples of secretion in a Sentence

the secretion of stomach acids root secretions that repel insects
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Sea scallops are part of the bivalve family because the animals inside create their own shells through the secretion of calcium carbonate, according to the Ocean Conservancy. Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 10 Feb. 2025 The presence of extrafloral nectar doesn’t mean that the citrus plant will draw ants into the house, but the secretions may be a sticky minor nuisance. Miri Talabac, Baltimore Sun, 23 Jan. 2025 Acetylcholine is important for your nervous system and helps open blood vessels, increase secretions (such as saliva), and slow your heart rate. Alex Yampolsky, Health, 3 Jan. 2025 The viral baby hippos’ lovable characteristics, such as their blushing cheeks and shiny skin, are caused by secretions called blood sweat. Elizabeth Gamillo, Smithsonian Magazine, 3 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for secretion

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of secretion was in 1646

Cite this Entry

“Secretion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/secretion. Accessed 1 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

secretion

noun
se·​cre·​tion si-ˈkrē-shən How to pronounce secretion (audio)
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

Medical Definition

secretion

noun
se·​cre·​tion si-ˈkrē-shən How to pronounce secretion (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on secretion

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