rectal

adjective

rec·​tal ˈrek-tᵊl How to pronounce rectal (audio)
: relating to, affecting, or being near the rectum
rectal walls
rectal cancer
rectally adverb

Examples of rectal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some people do not experience symptoms, so regular screening with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams (DRE) are important for early detection. Brandi Jones, Msn-Ed, Health, 5 Sep. 2024 Core body temperature as measured by rectal thermometers was pushed up by three notches: 0.5 degree, 1 degree, then 1.5 degrees Celsius while PET scans revealed how blood was flowing through participants’ hearts. Elizabeth Cooney, STAT, 10 June 2024 Common symptoms include rectal bleeding, itching, and changes in bowel habits. Qin Rao, Verywell Health, 18 Oct. 2024 The analysis further showed a strong association between colon cancer risk and obesity, family history of gastrointestinal malignancy, and symptoms such as abdominal pain or rectal bleeding. Don Rauf, EverydayHealth.com, 18 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for rectal 

Word History

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rectal was in 1826

Dictionary Entries Near rectal

Cite this Entry

“Rectal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rectal. Accessed 18 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

rectal

adjective
rec·​tal ˈrek-tᵊl How to pronounce rectal (audio)
: relating to, affecting, or being near the rectum
rectal bleeding
rectally adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on rectal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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