Rectal Meaning
/ˈrɛk.təl/Definition, CEFR level B2, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
Listen pronunciation
Definition
adjOf, via or related to the rectum.
nounEllipsis of rectal examination.
Sentence Examples
The doctor performed a rectal exam to check for any abnormalities.
In hospitals, body temperature is sometimes taken using a rectal thermometer.
CEFR Practice Quiz
The proctologist used a scope for a ____ examination of the lower intestine.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The doctor performed a ____ examination as part of the routine health screening for men over fifty.
Word Origin & History
Etymology tree English rectum Proto-Indo-European *h₂el-der.? Proto-Italic *-ālis Latin -ālisbor. Old French -albor. ▲ Latin -ālis Old French -elbor. ▲ Latin -ālisbor. Middle English -al English -al English rectal From rectum + -al.
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"Give a MC a rectal hysterectomy / Lecture on removal of the bowels, foul technically"
— 2009, “THAT'S THAT”, in BORN LIKE THIS, performed by DOOM:
"Colorectal cancer refers to colon cancer, which starts in the colon, and rectal cancer, which starts in the rectum."
— 2025 March 21, Katia Hetter, “Reduce your risk of colon and rectal cancer with these basic steps”, in CNN:
"Most doctors feel a rectal examination is unnecessary following a full pelvic examination, so that rectals are not routinely performed on women."
— 1988, Judith Campbell, J. Golick, Sexuality: An Education Resource Book, page 53:
Explore More B2 Vocabulary Words
CEFR Practice Quiz
The proctologist used a scope for a ____ examination of the lower intestine.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The doctor performed a ____ examination as part of the routine health screening for men over fifty.