large intestine

noun

: the more terminal division of the vertebrate intestine that is wider and shorter than the small intestine, typically divided into cecum, colon, and rectum, and concerned especially with the resorption of water and the formation of feces

Examples of large intestine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Crohn's usually affects your small intestine and the beginning of your large intestine. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 24 Oct. 2024

In this stage, the cancer has spread to other organs such as the rectum (lowest part of the large intestine), bladder, lymph nodes, or lungs. —Heidi Cope, Health, 20 Oct. 2024

Adding yogurt is also a great way to load up on probiotics, which help support gut health by keeping the number of microorganisms native to the small and large intestines in check. —Ashia Aubourg, Outside Online, 4 Oct. 2024

If there are carbohydrates that the small intestine can't digest fully, they eventually get broken down by bacteria in the large intestine. —Cristina Mutchler, Health, 7 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1724, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

large intestine

noun

: the last part of the intestine which is wider and shorter than the small intestine, which consists of the cecum, colon, and rectum, and which absorbs water from the material left over from digestion and prepares the feces for release from the body

Medical Definition

large intestine

noun

: the more terminal division of the vertebrate intestine that is wider and shorter than the small intestine, typically divided into cecum, colon, and rectum, and concerned especially with the resorption of water and the formation of feces