fecal
UK: ˈfiːkəl | US: ˈfiːkəl
adj. relating to or consisting of feces
The word "fecal" derives from the Latin faecālis, which stems from faex (plural faeces), meaning "dregs" or "sediment." The root fec- preserves the original Latin spelling, while -al is a common English suffix forming adjectives. Historically, faex referred to the residue of wine or other liquids, later narrowing to specifically mean bodily waste. The term reflects the logical progression from general waste to its biological context.
The lab analyzed fecal samples for bacterial contamination.
Poor sanitation can lead to fecal contamination of water supplies.
The doctor ordered a fecal test to check for parasites.
Fecal matter must be disposed of properly to prevent disease.
The study examined fecal microbiota in healthy adults.