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

This mini-ecosystem is located mainly within our large intestine and is home to trillions of microscopic organisms, including more than a thousand types of bacteria. —Stephanie Edwards, Discover Magazine, 13 June 2025

Lowers the Risk of Colon Cancer Green tea may also lower your risk of colorectal cancer, which starts in the large intestine. —Sarah Bence, Verywell Health, 6 June 2025

Toxic megacolon is a serious condition of the large intestine, or colon, that affects how well food moves through the digestive system. —Janelle McSwiggin, Health, 6 June 2025

The central question of the study was not about vaccines but aimed to explore a possible relationship between colitis − an inflammation of the large intestine − and developmental disorders. —Richard Ball, The Conversation, 5 June 2025

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