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secrete

Secrete (verb) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

verb

IPA:

/sɪˈkrit/

What does secrete mean?

To produce and release a substance from a gland, organ, or cell in the body.
"Poisonous frogs secrete toxins as a defense against predators."

Detailed Meaning of Secrete

This process is typically involuntary and occurs as a natural function of the body. The substance being secreted can be a variety of things, such as hormones, enzymes, mucus, or sweat. "Secrete" can also mean to conceal or hide something, often in a secretive or covert manner. In this context, it refers to deliberately keeping something hidden from others, such as a secret plan or information. Overall, "secrete" can have both physiological and non-physiological meanings, but both involve the act of producing or hiding something.

Example Sentences for Secrete

1. The glands in your body secrete various hormones to regulate physiological processes.
2. Did you know that snails secrete mucus to help them move smoothly?
3. To protect themselves, skunks secrete a foul-smelling spray.
4. Plants secrete substances into the soil to deter potential predators.
5. Our sweat glands secrete fluid to help cool the body.
6. The pancreas can secrete insulin to control blood sugar levels.

Origin and Etymology of Secrete

The verb 'secrete' has its etymological origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'secretus,' which is the past participle of 'secernere.' This Latin term combines 'se,' meaning 'apart' or 'away,' and 'cernere,' meaning 'to sift,' 'to separate,' or 'to distinguish.' Therefore, 'secrete' can be understood as the act of separating or setting something apart. In the context of biology and physiology, 'secrete' describes the process by which living organisms, such as glands, organs, or cells, produce and release substances, often separating them from the surrounding tissues or fluids. The etymology of 'secrete' reflects its historical connection to the idea of separation and the selective release of specific substances by living organisms, a process that plays a crucial role in various physiological functions and bodily processes.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb secrete:

retain

contain

excrete

withhold

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

More Usage Examples of Secrete

1. Certain fungi secrete enzymes that help decompose organic matter.
2. Some trees secrete a sticky sap when they are wounded.
3. Bees secrete wax to build their hives.
4. Certain types of bacteria secrete substances that aid in their survival.
5. Snakes secrete venom to immobilize or kill their prey.
6. The glands in our eyes secrete tears to cleanse and lubricate the surface.
7. The stomach walls secrete gastric juice for the digestion of food.
8. Certain insects secrete pheromones to attract mates.
9. In response to injury, platelets secrete factors to promote clotting.
10. Pine trees secrete resin to seal up cuts or wounds.
11. In a response to stress, the adrenal glands secrete cortisol.
12. Oysters secrete nacre around an irritant to form pearls.
13. To produce milk, mammary glands secrete a complex fluid rich in nutrients.
14. Salivary glands secrete saliva, aiding in digestion and oral health.
15. Bees secrete wax to build intricate, hexagonal honeycombs.
16. Skunks secrete a foul spray to deter potential predators.
17. Trees secrete sap, a sticky fluid rich in sugars and nutrients.
18. Some plants secrete nectar, attracting pollinators far and wide.
19. In response to injury, cells secrete substances to begin healing.
20. Our skin secrete sweat, a natural mechanism for body cooling.
21. To capture prey, the web spiders secrete is strong and sticky.
22. Glands in our eyes secrete tears, cleansing and moisturizing.
23. To defend itself, the octopus can secrete a blinding ink.
24. Certain algae secrete toxins, warning predators to stay away.