# secretion

/səˈkɹiʃən/ (US) · /sɪkɹˈiːʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/secretion
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. the substance produced

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a liquid or substance that a plant or animal produces for a special purpose.

For teachers: a substance, such as a hormone or enzyme, that is produced and discharged by a cell, gland, or organ for a specific function.

- The sticky secretion on the plant's leaves helps it catch small insects.
- Biologists analyzed the oily secretion from the bird's glands, which serves to waterproof its feathers during long migrations.

Usage: Commonly used as a countable noun when referring to specific types of substances.

### 2. the process of releasing

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the natural process of a body part releasing a substance.

For teachers: the physiological process by which a cell or gland synthesizes and releases a specific product.

- Stress can lead to the secretion of certain hormones in the body.
- The excessive secretion of stomach acid can lead to discomfort and long-term digestive issues if left untreated.

Usage: Often functions as an uncountable noun when describing the biological mechanism.

### 3. hiding something

noun · CEFR C2 · Formal

the act of hiding something away so others cannot find it.

For teachers: the act of concealing or hiding something from view or discovery.

- The secretion of the stolen documents in a floorboard kept them safe for years.
- The rapid secretion of the assets into offshore accounts made it difficult for the investigators to track the funds.

Usage: This sense is related to the verb 'secrete' meaning to hide, rather than the biological meaning.

Teaching tip: This sense is much rarer than the biological one; students are more likely to encounter it in formal literature or legal contexts.

## Examples

- The secretion of insulin helps control blood sugar.
- Bees use a waxy secretion to build the complex structures of their hives.
- The endocrine system regulates the secretion of hormones directly into the bloodstream to maintain internal balance and respond to external stressors.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.