feces
UK: ˈfiːsiːz | US: ˈfiːsiːz
n. waste matter discharged from the bowels; excrement.
feces = fec<dregs, sediment> + es<plural noun suffix>
- fec (from Latin faex, meaning "dregs" or "sediment")
- es (Latin plural suffix, indicating multiple instances)
Etymology Origin:
The word "feces" traces back to Latin faex, which referred to the sediment or dregs of liquids (e.g., wine). Over time, it evolved to specifically denote bodily waste, reflecting the idea of "residue" expelled from the digestive system. The plural suffix -es was retained from Latin, giving the word its modern form.
The veterinarian analyzed the dog’s feces for parasites.
Proper sanitation prevents the spread of diseases through feces.
The lab report confirmed the presence of blood in the patient’s feces.
Ancient Romans used feces as fertilizer in agriculture.
The zoo collects animal feces for composting.