Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ɪkˈskrɛtəri/
KK: /ɪkˈskrɛtəri/
Definition
Related to the process of getting rid of waste from the body.
Example
The kidneys are important excretory organs that help filter waste from the blood.
Conversation

Did you know that the human body has excretory organs that help get rid of waste?

Really? I had no idea how complex that system is.

Yeah, it’s fascinating how the excretory system works so efficiently.

Exactly! It's amazing how our bodies take care of themselves.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
eliminatory
disposal
expulsive
Antonyms
retentive
absorptive
collective
Root Explanation
Excretory → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out) and "crescere" (meaning to grow). The word describes the process of substances being grown or produced and then expelled from the body.
Memory Tip
Think of the process of substances 'growing out' ('ex-') from the body, which helps you remember that 'excretory' relates to expelling waste.
Visually Confused Words
secretory
decretory
recreatory
execratory
asecretory
secretor
feretory
excitory