rectum: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical/Medical
Quick answer
What does “rectum” mean?
The final section of the large intestine, ending at the anus.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The final section of the large intestine, ending at the anus.
In anatomy and medicine, specifically the terminal 12–15 cm segment of the large intestine that stores feces before defecation.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. The word has the same anatomical meaning in both varieties.
Connotations
The word is clinical and formal in both regions. It carries no strong regional connotative differences.
Frequency
Equally low in general use for both varieties, but standard in professional/medical contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “rectum” in a Sentence
[to examine/investigate/visualise] the rectumthe rectum [is located/extends/connects][cancer/inflammation/infection] of the rectumVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “rectum” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The rectal thermometer is a standard tool.
American English
- She underwent a rectal exam during the check-up.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Standard in medical, biological, and anatomical texts and research.
Everyday
Generally avoided in polite conversation; considered a clinical term.
Technical
The precise and primary term in medicine, surgery, gastroenterology, and anatomy.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “rectum”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “rectum”
- Incorrect plural: 'rectums' is accepted, but 'recta' is the classical plural, often used in technical contexts.
- Confusing it with the colon or anus.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is not inherently rude. It is a standard, clinical anatomical term. However, due to its association with excretion, it is often considered impolite for casual conversation and euphemisms are preferred in everyday settings.
The rectum is the final, chamber-like section of the large intestine that stores feces. The anus is the external opening at the very end of the digestive tract, controlled by sphincter muscles, through which feces exit the body.
No, the word itself is a noun. The related adjective is 'rectal', as in 'rectal exam' or 'rectal temperature'.
Both 'rectums' and 'recta' are acceptable. 'Rectums' is more common in general English, while 'recta' is often used in medical and scientific Latin-based terminology.
The final section of the large intestine, ending at the anus.
Rectum is usually technical/medical in register.
Rectum: in British English it is pronounced /ˈrɛktəm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈrɛktəm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “(very rare, informal and crude) 'Talk out of one's rectum' (to speak nonsense).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'RECT-angular' (straight) and 'UM' for 'ultimate' – the straight, final part of the intestine.
Conceptual Metaphor
CONTAINER (for waste); TUBE/PASSAGEWAY.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'rectum' most appropriately used?