What does rectum mean?
A rectum is the final section of the large intestine, located between the sigmoid colon and the anus. It has an important role in the digestive process by temporarily storing feces before they are expelled. In medical contexts, the word is common in expressions such as rectal examination, rectal bleeding, and rectal cancer, and it is also used when describing a rectal temperature. Anatomically, the rectum was given its name from the Latin for “straight,” reflecting its relatively straight course within the body. The term is precise and generally neutral, though it can sound more clinical or technical when compared with less formal expressions used in everyday conversation. It is also the source of related English words such as rectal and rectally.
nounThe final section of the large intestine, extending from the sigmoid colon to the anus. It stores and conveys feces before they leave the body.
- The terminal part of the large intestine between the sigmoid colon and the anus, involved in the storage and passage of feces.
"The doctor recommended a colonoscopy to examine the rectum and the surrounding tissue."
"The physician explained that the imaging was being used to evaluate the rectum for inflammation."
"Rectal bleeding can have several causes, ranging from hemorrhoids to more serious conditions."
The plural is used when referring to the rectums of multiple people or animals, though in medical discussion the singular form is often preferred.
"The scan showed that both rectums appeared normal."
The rectum was named for being the body's straightest major section of the lower intestine, and it also gives us words such as rectal and rectitude.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does rectum come from?
The word comes from Latin rectum, meaning “straight,” the neuter form of the adjective rectus. The anatomical name refers to the organ's comparatively straight course. Latin rectus also underlies English words including correct, erect, direction, and rectitude, all of which belong to the same wider root associated with straightness, uprightness, or setting in a straight direction.
Related word forms
How rectum is actually used
In medicine, the term is used mainly in clinical and anatomical contexts. In general public-health language, it may be replaced by less clinical expressions when discussing examinations or symptoms.
Easily confused with rectum
A rectangle is a geometric figure with four right angles, whereas a rectum is a part of the digestive tract.