Definition

1. Noun:
   • The part of the alimentary canal between the stomach and the anus: The intestine is the long, continuous tube in the digestive system where most of the digestion of food and absorption of nutrients takes place. It is divided into the small intestine and the large intestine.

Usage

• The word "intestine" is a countable noun. It is most commonly used in its plural form, "intestines," to refer to the entire organ system.
• It is a formal, anatomical term. In everyday conversation, people often use the word "gut" or "bowels."
• It can function as a noun modifier (attributive noun) in compound terms like "intestinal tract."

Examples

• Noun:
  • The surgeon carefully examined the patient's intestine during the operation.
  • Food passes from the stomach into the small intestine.
  • A blockage in the large intestine can cause severe pain.

Advanced Usage

• "Intestine" as an attributive noun: Used to describe other nouns related to the gut.
  • Intestine health is crucial for overall well-being. (Here, "intestine" modifies "health.")
• "Intestine of [something]" (literary/figurative): Sometimes used metaphorically to describe the inner, winding parts of something.
  • They traveled through the dark intestines of the ancient cave system.

Variants and Related Words

• Intestines (n, pl): The more common term for the digestive tract between the stomach and anus.
  • The scan showed no problems in his intestines.
• Intestinal (adj): Relating to the intestines.
  • She suffered from an intestinal infection.
• Small intestine (n): The long, coiled section of the intestine where most digestion and nutrient absorption occurs.
• Large intestine (n): The broader, shorter section of the intestine that absorbs water and forms feces.
• Gut (n): A less formal synonym for the intestines or digestive tract.
• Bowel (n): Often used interchangeably with "intestine," especially the large intestine.

Synonyms

• Gut: The internal tract, especially when referring to feelings or instinct.
• Bowel: Often used in medical contexts similar to "intestine."
• Viscera: A formal term for the internal organs in the main cavities of the body, especially in the abdomen (including the intestines).

Related Phrases

• Intestinal fortitude (Idiom): Courage and endurance; guts (figurative).
  • It took real intestinal fortitude to stand up to the bully.
• To have a gut feeling: To have an instinct or intuition about something.
  • I have a gut feeling that this is the right decision. (Note: This idiom uses "gut," a synonym, not "intestine" directly.)

Noun

1. the part of the alimentary canal between the stomach and the anus