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 People with mild to moderate UC have less than six bowel movements per day, with minimal rectal bleeding. Megan Nunn, Verywell Health, 11 Sep. 2024 Much of the increase is attributable to colon and rectal cancers: In 2019, there were about 5.7 cases of colorectal cancer among 100,000 people ages 14 to 49. Dylan Scott, Vox, 9 Sep. 2024 Separately, several research teams and companies have been working to develop simple blood tests to screen for colon and rectal cancers. Cnn.com Wire Service, The Mercury News, 29 July 2024 Breast, thyroid, and colon or rectal cancers were diagnosed the most in people under 50. Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 7 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for rectal 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'rectal.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 20 Sep. 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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