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
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.
According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum, which make up the large intestine (or large bowel). Claire Franken, TVLine, 3 Nov. 2024 This type of cancer affects the large intestine and digestion, with a lifetime risk for men of 1 in 23. Lynette Rice, Deadline, 28 Nov. 2024 Fiber helps keep your bowel movements regular and comfortable and fuels the growth of beneficial bacteria in your large intestine. Jillian Kubala, Health, 26 Nov. 2024 Colorectal cancer, per the American Cancer Society, starts in the colon or the rectum, which make up the large intestine in the digestive system. Vanessa Etienne, People.com, 4 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for large intestine 

Word History

First Known Use

1724, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of large intestine was in 1724

Dictionary Entries Near large intestine

Cite this Entry

“Large intestine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/large%20intestine. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on large intestine

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!