rectum

noun

rec·​tum ˈrek-təm How to pronounce rectum (audio)
plural rectums or recta ˈrek-tə How to pronounce rectum (audio)
: the terminal part of the intestine from the sigmoid colon to the anus

Examples of rectum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Multiple studies have indicated that an aspirin regimen may help prevent polyps in the colon and rectum from developing or recurring, therefore reducing a person’s chance of developing cancer, Tan said. Elizabeth Yuko, Health, 12 Aug. 2024 For men, the pelvic floor supports the bladder and rectum and aids in erectile function and urinary and bladder control. Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, CNN, 7 Aug. 2024 Less commonly, your provider may need to examine your rectum as part of a pelvic exam. Wendy Wisner, Health, 2 Aug. 2024 During the procedure, doctors insert a tiny camera into the rectum to look for tumors or spots that may become cancerous in the future. Erika Edwards, NBC News, 29 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for rectum 

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

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Medieval Latin, from rectum intestinum, literally, straight intestine

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rectum was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near rectum

Cite this Entry

“Rectum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rectum. Accessed 19 Aug. 2024.

Kids Definition

rectum

noun
rec·​tum ˈrek-təm How to pronounce rectum (audio)
plural rectums or recta -tə How to pronounce rectum (audio)
: the end of the large intestine that links the colon to the anus
rectal
-tᵊl
adjective

Medical Definition

rectum

noun
rec·​tum ˈrek-təm How to pronounce rectum (audio)
plural rectums or recta -tə How to pronounce rectum (audio)
: the terminal part of the intestine from the sigmoid colon to the anus

More from Merriam-Webster on rectum

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