anal
UK: ˈeɪnəl | US: ˈeɪnəl
adj. relating to the anus
adj. (informal) overly meticulous or obsessive about details
The word "anal" derives from the Latin "ānus" (meaning "ring" or "anus"), combined with the adjectival suffix "-al" (from Latin "-ālis"). Originally used in anatomical contexts, it later acquired a figurative sense in psychology (e.g., "anal-retentive") to describe obsessive attention to detail, influenced by Freudian theory. The morpheme "an" preserves the Latin root, while "-al" marks it as an adjective.
The doctor examined the patient for anal discomfort.
His anal approach to formatting made the report flawless.
She criticized his anal habits, like alphabetizing spices.
The study focused on anal hygiene practices.
His anal retentiveness extended to color-coding his closet.