gastrointestinal
UK: /ˌɡæstrəʊɪnˈtestɪnəl/ | US: /ˌɡæstroʊɪnˈtestɪnəl/
adj. relating to the stomach and intestines
adj. pertaining to the digestive tract
The word "gastrointestinal" combines two Latin-derived roots: "gastro-" (from Greek gastēr, meaning "stomach") and "intestinal" (from Latin intestinum, meaning "gut" or "intestine"). The suffix "-al" turns the compound into an adjective. Historically, the term emerged in medical Latin to describe the interconnected system of digestion, reflecting the anatomical and functional link between the stomach and intestines.
The doctor specializes in gastrointestinal disorders.
A healthy diet supports gastrointestinal function.
The patient complained of persistent gastrointestinal pain.
Certain medications can irritate the gastrointestinal tract.
Researchers are studying the microbiome's role in gastrointestinal health.