exocrine

/'eksəkrain/

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Sure! Let’s break down the word "exocrine" in a way that’s easy to understand.

Definition:

Exocrine is an adjective that describes certain types of glands in the body. These glands release substances (like sweat, saliva, or digestive juices) through tubes or ducts to the outside of the body or into hollow organs.

Usage Instructions:

You can use "exocrine" when talking about biology or medicine, particularly when discussing how certain glands work. It is often used in contexts relating to the human body, animals, or even in some plants.

Example Sentence:

• The exocrine glands in our mouth produce saliva, which helps with digestion.

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced discussions, you might encounter terms like "exocrine function" or "exocrine secretion," which refer to the specific roles and substances released by these glands.

Word Variants:

• Exocrine gland (noun): A specific type of gland that secretes substances externally.
• Endocrine (adjective): This is often mentioned in contrast to "exocrine." Endocrine glands release hormones directly into the bloodstream instead of through ducts.

Different Meanings:

In general usage, "exocrine" refers only to those glands that secrete externally. It does not have other meanings outside of its biological context.

Synonyms:

While there aren't direct synonyms for "exocrine," you can refer to the glands as "secretory glands" when discussing their function. However, be careful, as "secretory" can refer to both exocrine and endocrine glands.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There aren’t idioms or phrasal verbs that specifically include "exocrine," as it is a technical term used primarily in scientific contexts.

Summary:

To sum it up, "exocrine" is a special word used mainly in biology to describe glands that send substances out through ducts.

Academic

Adjective

1. of or relating to exocrine glands or their secretions

Noun

1. a gland that secretes externally through a duct

Synonyms

• exocrine gland
• duct gland