Secrete

/sɪˈkriːt/

Meaning & Definition

verb
to produce and discharge a substance, especially a liquid, from a cell or gland.
The pancreas secretes insulin to regulate blood sugar levels.
to hide or conceal something.
He managed to secrete the stolen jewels in a hidden compartment.
to form or separate a substance from a mixture.
The liver secretes bile, which aids in digestion.

Etymology

Late Middle English, from Latin 'secretus', meaning 'set apart or hidden'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

secrete away
to hide something
secrete into
to release a substance into another
secrete hormones
to produce and release hormones

Related Words

secretion
the process of producing and releasing substances in the body.
secretory
relating to or involving the release of substances.
secretive
inclined to conceal feelings and intentions or not to disclose information.

Slang Meanings

to stash or hide something.
He decided to secrete the papers so nobody would find them.