rectal

adjective

rec·​tal ˈrek-tᵊl How to pronounce rectal (audio)
: relating to, affecting, or being near the rectum
rectal walls
rectal cancer
rectally adverb

Examples of rectal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Breast, thyroid, and colon or rectal cancers were diagnosed the most in people under 50. Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 7 Aug. 2024 This guidance is for those who do not have symptoms and who have no diagnosis of colorectal cancer, history of colon or rectal polyps, or personal or family history of genetic disorders that put them at higher risk. Jacqueline Howard, CNN, 31 July 2024 The test, called Shield, is expected to launch commercially within the next week and will join other types of colon and rectal cancer screening methods – including colonoscopies and at-home stool tests – as options that health care providers can offer their patients. Cnn.com Wire Service, The Mercury News, 29 July 2024 But bull sharks have a unique ability with their kidneys, liver, gills and rectal gland to not only have tremendous variation in the amount of salt and wastes they excrete, but in the dilution of those wastes. Keith Matheny, Detroit Free Press, 16 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for rectal 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'rectal.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rectal was in 1826

Dictionary Entries Near rectal

Cite this Entry

“Rectal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rectal. Accessed 20 Aug. 2024.

Medical Definition

rectal

adjective
rec·​tal ˈrek-tᵊl How to pronounce rectal (audio)
: relating to, affecting, or being near the rectum
rectal bleeding
rectally adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on rectal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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