intestine
[ in-tes-tin ]
/ ɪnˈtɛs tɪn /
noun
Usually intestines.
the lower part of the alimentary canal, extending from the pylorus to the anus.
Also called small intestine.
the narrow, longer part of the intestines, comprising the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum, that serves to digest and absorb nutrients.
Also called large intestine.
the broad, shorter part of the intestines, comprising the cecum, colon, and rectum, that absorbs water from and eliminates the residues of digestion.
adjective
internal; domestic; civil: intestine strife.
Origin of intestine
1525–35; < Latin
intestīnum, noun use of neuter of
intestīnus internal, equivalent to
intes- (variant of
intus inside) +
-tīnus adj. suffix; cf.
vespertine
Words nearby intestine
Example sentences from the Web for intestines
British Dictionary definitions for intestines
intestine
/ (ɪnˈtɛstɪn) /
noun
(usually plural)
the part of the alimentary canal between the stomach and the anus
See large intestine, small intestine Related adjective: alvine
Derived forms of intestine
intestinal (ɪnˈtɛstɪnəl, ˌɪntɛsˈtaɪnəl), adjective intestinally, adverbWord Origin for intestine
C16: from Latin
intestīnum gut, from
intestīnus internal, from
intus within
Medical definitions for intestines
intestine
[ ĭn-tĕs′tĭn ]
n.
The portion of the alimentary canal extending from the stomach to the anus and, in humans and other mammals, consisting of two segments, the small intestine and the large intestine. Often used in the plural.
Scientific definitions for intestines
intestine
[ ĭn-tĕs′tĭn ]
The muscular tube that forms the part of the digestive tract extending from the stomach to the anus and consisting of the small and large intestines. In the intestine, nutrients and water from digested food are absorbed and waste products are solidified into feces. See also large intestine small intestine.
Cultural definitions for intestines
intestines
The part of the gastrointestinal tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. The intestines are further subdivided into the large intestine and small intestine. (See digestive system.)