secretion - a functionally specialized substance (especially one that is not a waste) released from a gland or cellganoin, ganoine - shiny substance that resemble enamel and is secreted by the corium of certain fishes (especially ganoid fishes) and composes the outer layer of their scales autacoid, autocoid - any physiologically active internal secretion especially one of uncertain classification synovia, synovial fluid - viscid lubricating fluid secreted by the membrane lining joints and tendon sheaths etc. mucous secretion, mucus - protective secretion of the mucous membranes; in the gut it lubricates the passage of food and protects the epithelial cells; in the nose and throat and lungs it can make it difficult for bacteria to penetrate the body through the epithelium saliva, spittle, spit - a clear liquid secreted into the mouth by the salivary glands and mucous glands of the mouth; moistens the mouth and starts the digestion of starches sebum - the oily secretion of the sebaceous glands; with perspiration it moistens and protects the skin royal jelly - a secretion of the pharyngeal glands of bees that is fed to very young larvae and to bees destined to be queens musk - an odorous glandular secretion from the male musk deer; used as a perfume fixative nectar - a sweet liquid secretion that is attractive to pollinators pheromone - a chemical substance secreted externally by some animals (especially insects) that influences the physiology or behavior of other animals of the same species |