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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But this could also signal hemorrhoids or rectal bleeding. Julia Sullivan, Outside, 26 Mar. 2026 Cyclical diarrhea or rectal pain may be evaluated by a gastroenterologist and labeled irritable bowel syndrome. Sarah Berg, STAT, 26 Mar. 2026 Depending on where the cancer starts, it may be referred to as colon or rectal cancer; colorectal cancer is an umbrella term that includes both. Miriam Fauzia, Dallas Morning News, 19 Mar. 2026 Her immediate cause of death is listed as a pulmonary embolism, with rectal cancer as the underlying cause. Jason Pham, StyleCaster, 15 Mar. 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 30 Mar. 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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