intestinal

/in'testinl/
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intestinal

The doctor examines a diagram of the intestinal tract.

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Relating to the intestines: Pertaining to or located within the intestines, which are the long, continuous tube in the digestive system running from the stomach to the anus.
    • Internal, visceral: By extension, can describe something as being deep within or fundamental to a system, though this is a less common figurative use.
Usage and Examples
  • Basic Adjective Use:
    • The doctor specialized in intestinal disorders. (The doctor's expertise was in diseases affecting the intestines.)
    • An intestinal blockage can be a serious medical condition. (An obstruction inside the intestines is a serious health issue.)
    • The intestinal lining absorbs nutrients from food. (The inner surface of the intestines absorbs nutrients.)
Advanced Usage
  • "intestinal flora": The community of microorganisms, including bacteria, that normally live in the intestines.
    • A healthy balance of intestinal flora is crucial for digestion.
  • "intestinal fortitude": (Idiomatic) Courage, grit, or endurance; a figurative use comparing inner strength to the toughness of the intestines.
    • Finishing the marathon required tremendous intestinal fortitude.
Variants and Related Words
  • Intestine (noun): The organ itself; the bowels or gut.
    • The small intestine is where most nutrient absorption occurs.
  • Intestinally (adverb): In a manner relating to the intestines.
    • The medication is absorbed intestinally.
  • Gastrointestinal (adjective): Pertaining to both the stomach and the intestines.
    • He experienced gastrointestinal discomfort.
Synonyms
  • Enteric (adjective): A more technical synonym for intestinal.
    • The enteric nervous system controls gut function.
  • Visceral (adjective): Relating to the internal organs; can be used more broadly than just the intestines.
Related Phrases and Compounds
  • Intestinal tract: Another term for the intestines or the digestive passage.
    • The infection spread through the entire intestinal tract.
  • Intestinal parasite: An organism that lives in and feeds off the intestines.
    • The traveler was diagnosed with an intestinal parasite.
intestinal

The doctor examines a diagram of the intestinal tract.

Adjective
  1. of or relating to or inside the intestines
    • intestinal disease