rectum

noun

rec·​tum ˈrek-təm How to pronounce rectum (audio)
plural rectums or recta ˈrek-tə How to pronounce rectum (audio)
: the terminal part of the intestine from the sigmoid colon to the anus

Examples of rectum 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.
Along with diet, prior research has shown that not getting enough exercise, obesity, and tobacco and alcohol use may heighten cancer risk of both the colon and rectum. Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 24 Apr. 2026 Ulcerative colitis involves inflammation and ulceration of the colon and rectum, often leading to abdominal pain, urgent bowel movements, and diarrhea that may include blood. Holly Carter, PEOPLE, 24 Apr. 2026 But stool also needs hydration in order to properly travel from your colon to your rectum, hence fiber’s importance. Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 7 Apr. 2026 For a professional internet troll, nothing hit the sweet spot like a comment that involved a human rectum. Ben Mezrich, Vanity Fair, 6 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rectum

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Medieval Latin, from rectum intestinum, literally, straight intestine

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rectum was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rectum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rectum. Accessed 29 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

rectum

noun
rec·​tum ˈrek-təm How to pronounce rectum (audio)
plural rectums or recta -tə How to pronounce rectum (audio)
: the end of the large intestine that links the colon to the anus
rectal
-tᵊl
adjective

Medical Definition

rectum

noun
rec·​tum ˈrek-təm How to pronounce rectum (audio)
plural rectums or recta -tə How to pronounce rectum (audio)
: the terminal part of the intestine from the sigmoid colon to the anus

More from Merriam-Webster on rectum

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster