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
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Hispanic adults and residents of Western states experienced the steepest increases in rectal cancer deaths, the study found. Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 27 Apr. 2026 Applying a machine learning model computer program, the scientists calculated that rectal cancer mortality among adults ages 35 to 44 (the core of the millennial generation) will escalate through 2035, as colon cancer mortality in the same age group rises more slowly. Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 24 Apr. 2026 Some foods, however, can significantly influence gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, diarrhea, urgency, and bloating. Mark Marino, PEOPLE, 24 Apr. 2026 Colon cancer and rectal cancer are similar but form in different parts of the digestive tract. Erika Edwards, NBC news, 23 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rectal

Word History

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rectal was in 1826

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Cite this Entry

“Rectal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rectal. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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

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