noun

secretion

sih-KREE-shun/sɪˈkriːʃn/

The release of material by a biological cell or gland.

Secretion from the sweat gland leaves a bead on the skin.

A close cutaway of a small skin sample shows a coiled sweat gland connected by a continuous duct to a pore, where a prominent clear bead of sweat has emerged.

Etymology

seLatinapart

+cretLatinto separate

+ionLatinaction or process

The idea of “separating off” was applied to the activity of glands. The name then shifted from that process to the substance a gland or cell releases.

In context

WyzSci4:44

the entire cell bursts to become the secretion here

Chapter 5.7 Sweat Glands BIO201

More examples

Food smells can stimulate the secretion of saliva.
This medication reduces acid secretion in the stomach.
Nasal secretions help trap dust before it enters the lungs.

Forms

secretion · secretions

secrete verb — To produce and release a biological substance.

secretory adjective — Relating to the release of biological substances.

Similar words

release: Release is broader and need not involve cells or glands.
discharge: Discharge emphasizes material leaving a body or opening, not glandular activity.