secretory

[ si-kree-tuh-ree ]

adjective

1. pertaining to secretion.
2. performing the process of secretion.

noun

, plural se·cre·to·ries.

1. a secretory organ, vessel, or the like.

Other Words From

• nonse·creto·ry adjective noun plural nonsecretories

Word History and Origins

Origin of secretory¹

First recorded in 1685–95; secret(ion) + -ory ¹

Example Sentences

Taken as a whole this is often called the "secretory balance" or "internal secretory balance."

From Project Gutenberg

Considering epithelium from the point of view of function, it may be classified as protective, absorptive or secretory.

From Project Gutenberg

In the secretory portion of the gland and in the smaller ducts the epithelial layer is one cell thick only.

From Project Gutenberg

In the second main variety of gland the secretory portion is enlarged and the lumen variously increased in size.

From Project Gutenberg

They have been considered as secretory organs, answering to the pancreas in vertebrate animals.

From Project Gutenberg