rectum

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the final section of the large intestine, between the colon and the anal canal, where feces are held before elimination

   The rectum stores waste briefly before it leaves the body through the anus.

Simplified etymology

Rectum entered English in the late Middle Ages from Latin rectum intestinum, literally “straight intestine.” Rectum is based on Latin rectus, meaning “straight” or “right.”

Borrowed from New Latin rectum, shortened from Latin intestinum rectum, 'straight intestine.' Rectum is the neuter of rectus, 'straight,' reflecting an early anatomical description that was more accurate for some animals than for humans.

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