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
Examples of secretion in a Sentence
the secretion of stomach acids
root secretions that repel insects
Recent Examples on the Web
Insoluble fibre, which doesn’t break down within the body and passes through relatively unchanged, irritates the gut, causing water and mucus secretions to soften stool.
—
Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 18 July 2025
Mucus secretion was mostly overlooked until Yue decided to incorporate it into his robo-suckers.
—ArsTechnica, 28 June 2025
The study suggested that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) — which are released by sebum (oily secretions that help lubricate and protect skin) in the ear wax of individuals with Parkinson’s — have a certain distinctive smell.
—Amy McGorry, FOXNews.com, 26 June 2025
As well as being an excellent source of calcium, a mineral that gives structure to your bones and teeth, as well as for nerve and muscle function, hormone secretion, and blood vessel dilation.6
Fats and Oils
Fats and oils are allowed on any low-carb diet.
—Jillian Kubala, Health, 9 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for secretion
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show current usage.
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Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
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Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 18 July 2025
Mucus secretion was mostly overlooked until Yue decided to incorporate it into his robo-suckers.
—ArsTechnica, 28 June 2025
The study suggested that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) — which are released by sebum (oily secretions that help lubricate and protect skin) in the ear wax of individuals with Parkinson’s — have a certain distinctive smell.
—Amy McGorry, FOXNews.com, 26 June 2025
As well as being an excellent source of calcium, a mineral that gives structure to your bones and teeth, as well as for nerve and muscle function, hormone secretion, and blood vessel dilation.6
Fats and Oils
Fats and oils are allowed on any low-carb diet.
—Jillian Kubala, Health, 9 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for secretion
Cite this Entry
“Secretion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/secretion. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationKids 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
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
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