What does lacrimation mean?
Lacrimation is the formal word for the production and flow of tears. It can describe the normal, reflexive response of the eyes to irritation, pain, yawning, wind, or bright light, as well as the more emotional process of crying. Because of its clinical and literary associations, the term sounds more technical than the everyday words tears and crying, while also conveying a slightly elevated or solemn tone. It is useful in medical writing when precision matters, and in literature when the physical act of weeping is being described deliberately. In a sentence such as “The onions caused immediate lacrimation,” the word focuses on the physiological response; when it refers to sadness, it highlights the visible expression of grief or strong feeling without necessarily specifying the emotion itself.
nounThe secretion or flow of tears from the eyes, especially when caused by strong emotion, irritation, pain, or reflex stimulation. The word can also refer more generally to the process of weeping.
- The secretion or flow of tears from the eyes.
- The process or act of weeping, especially in response to emotion.
"She was overcome by emotion, and lacrimation blurred her vision."
"The bright light triggered immediate lacrimation in her eyes."
"His lacrimation revealed that he had been deeply affected by the news."
Usually used in the plural when referring to separate episodes or instances of tear production.
"The account describes repeated lacrimations during the interview."
Lacrimation turns a simple bodily response into a precise word: tears are not only an emotion, but also a reflex triggered by irritation, pain, yawning, or even the presence of onions.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lacrimation come from?
Lacrimation comes through English from Latin lacrimatio, a noun meaning “weeping” or “the shedding of tears.” It is ultimately connected with Latin lacrima, meaning “tear,” the source of the related English words lacrimal, lacrimose, and lacrimate. The Latin root reflects the long-established connection between the eyes and the outward signs of emotion.
Related word forms
How lacrimation is actually used
In general use, lacrimation is more technical or formal than tears or crying. In medicine, it commonly describes excessive or abnormal tear production.
Easily confused with lacrimation
Lacrimation refers specifically to the production or flow of tears, whereas lamentation is an expression of mourning or deep regret.