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Definition of rectal

rectal

/ˈrɛk.təl/
rec · tal

Adverb:rectally
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rectal Lexical Profile

rectal Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Relating to, situated in, or affecting the rectum.

Example

"The veterinarian used a rectal thermometer to accurately measure the dog's core body temperature."

• Rhymes for rectal

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 19th century from 'rectum' (short for Modern Latin 'intestinum rectum', literally 'straight intestine') plus the adjectival suffix '-al'.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Rectal. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 3, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/rectal
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