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 Brawley also speculates that changes in the gut microbiome, partly from overuse of antibiotics, might influence colon, rectal and other gastrointestinal cancers. Lauren J. Young, Scientific American, 10 July 2024 This is particularly true if your main symptom is rectal bleeding, says Pooja Singhal, MD, an American Gastroenterological Association spokesperson. Theresa Tamkins, SELF, 9 July 2024 In rare cases, this may indicate colon or rectal cancer. Cristina Mutchler, Health, 3 July 2024 He’d been diagnosed with rectal cancer in March 2021. Jessica Schladebeck, New York Daily News, 17 Apr. 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 27 Jul. 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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