What does intestine mean?
The intestine is the long, muscular part of the digestive tract that carries food through the body, where its tissues break down food and absorb nutrients and water. In everyday use, the word usually appears in the plural as “intestines,” while the singular may identify a particular section or refer to the organ in an anatomical context. The term can be strictly anatomical, as in “small intestine,” or “large intestine,” but it also appears in figurative expressions about a person’s innermost thoughts, feelings, or group loyalties. Such figurative uses often suggest something deep, hidden, or difficult to examine directly. The word is useful in medical, biological, literary, and political contexts because it connects ordinary ideas of nourishment and digestion with broader concepts of interior life, vulnerability, and concealed problems.
nounThe hollow, muscular organ of the digestive tract extending from the stomach to the anus. In general use, “intestines” commonly refers to the digestive tract as a whole.
- An anatomical organ of the digestive tract, especially the part extending from the stomach to the anus.
- The digestive tract as a whole, especially in the plural form “intestines.”
"The small intestine absorbs most of the nutrients from the food we eat."
"The doctor explained how inflammation was affecting the lining of her intestine."
"The novel describes the food, disease, and political unrest that filled the bowels of the nation’s capital."
The plural is the normal form in general medical, biological, and figurative usage.
"The doctor found no sign of disease in the patient’s intestines."
Its name comes from Latin intestinus, meaning “internal,” because the intestine lies within the body.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does intestine come from?
The English word comes through French intestin from Latin intestinus, an adjective meaning “internal” or “within,” derived from Latin intus, meaning “within.” Its anatomical sense reflects its position inside the body. The related English adjective intestinal and adverb intestinally were formed directly from the same Latin-derived root.
Related word forms
How intestine is actually used
“Intestines” is the usual form in general medical and biological contexts. The singular “intestine” is more likely to refer to a specific organ or anatomical structure.