intestine
UK: ɪnˈtɛstɪn | US: ɪnˈtɛstɪn
n. The lower part of the alimentary canal, extending from the stomach to the anus, where digestion and nutrient absorption occur.
adj. Internal; relating to the inner workings of something (archaic).
The word "intestine" originates from the Latin intestinum, meaning "gut" or "bowel," derived from intus ("within"). The morpheme in- signifies "inside," while testine (via Latin testa, originally "shell" or "pot") evolved to denote the tubular structure of the gut. The term reflects the anatomical focus on internal organs, later narrowing to the digestive tract in modern usage.
The surgeon carefully examined the patient’s small intestine for blockages.
Nutrients are absorbed through the walls of the intestine.
In medieval medicine, the intestines were thought to influence emotions.
The word "intestine" is rarely used in its archaic sense of "internal affairs" today.
A healthy diet promotes better intestine function.