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

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

Blueberries contain antioxidant polyphenols, which act as fuel for beneficial gut bacteria in the large intestine, says Lindsay-Adler. —Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 11 Apr. 2026

The large intestine can extract some, but not all, calories from another type of fiber, called soluble fiber. —Kaitlin Sullivan, NBC news, 22 Mar. 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