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

Your gut — also called the gastrointestinal (GI) tract — contains around 100 trillion bacteria, most of which live in the large intestine. —Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 May 2026

Fiber plays multiple roles in gut health, including fueling the growth of beneficial bacteria in your large intestine and supporting regular, comfortable bowel movements. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 6 May 2026

Crohn’s disease, the more prevalent of the two, can affect any part of the digestive tract—most frequently the small intestine and the beginning of the large intestine—causing symptoms such as cramping, diarrhea, weight loss, and reduced appetite. —Holly Carter, PEOPLE, 24 Apr. 2026

Massage in a clockwise, circular pattern along the path of your large intestine. —Julie Marks, Verywell Health, 21 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1724, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for large intestine

• clandestine
• progestin

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