intestinal
UK: ɪnˈtɛstɪn(ə)l | US: ɪnˈtɛstənl
adj. relating to or affecting the intestines
adj. internal or visceral (less common usage)
intestinal = intestin<gut> + al<adjective suffix>
- intestin (from Latin intestinum, meaning "gut" or "internal")
- al (Latin-derived suffix forming adjectives, meaning "pertaining to")
Etymology Origin:
The word intestinal traces back to Latin intestinum, referring to the internal organs (especially the bowels). The suffix -al was added in Late Latin (intestinalis) to form an adjective meaning "relating to the intestines." Over time, the term narrowed in English to specifically describe anatomical or medical contexts involving the gut. The logic follows a clear progression: from a general "internal" sense to a specialized biological term.
The doctor suspected an intestinal blockage due to the patient's symptoms.
Certain foods can irritate the intestinal lining.
The parasite primarily affects the intestinal tract.
She experienced severe intestinal pain after the surgery.
Probiotics are known to support intestinal health.