colonoscopy

noun

co·​lo·​nos·​co·​py ˌkō-lə-ˈnä-skə-pē 

plural colonoscopies

: endoscopic examination of the colon

colonoscope

kō-ˈlä-nə-ˌskōp 

noun

Examples of colonoscopy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Stuart Bloom stopped by to share the news of a clean colonoscopy. — Michael Schneider, Variety, 14 Aug. 2026

As such, undergoing a screening colonoscopy, during which polyps (clumps of abnormal cells that may be noncancerous or cancerous) can be removed, is one of the most valuable ways to prevent colorectal cancer. — Colleen Doherty, Verywell Health, 10 Aug. 2026

They’re often urged to get yearly colonoscopies — far more often than usual — that can spot and remove precancerous growths called polyps. — ABC News, 6 Aug. 2026

The new building would feature two additional beds and the capacity to perform additional services such as infusion therapy for cancer, mammography and colonoscopies. — Connor Sheets, Los Angeles Times, 6 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1926, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing colonoscopy

• virtual colonoscopy

Rhymes for colonoscopy

• laparoscopy
• arthroscopy
• fluoroscopy
• spectroscopy

Medical Definition

colonoscopy

noun

co·​lo·​nos·​co·​py ˌkō-lə-ˈnäs-kə-pē  ˌkäl-ə- 

plural colonoscopies

: endoscopic examination of the colon

transabdominal colonoscopy with a sigmoidoscope via colotomy

colonoscopic

kō-ˌlän-ə-ˈskäp-ik 

adjective