# abomasum

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abomasum
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

the fourth and final stomach of a cow or other ruminant animal. It is where the food is digested and the nutrients are absorbed.

For teachers: the fourth and final compartment of the stomach in ruminant mammals, functioning as the site of enzymatic digestion and nutrient absorption.

## Examples

- The cow's abomasum is where the food is finally digested.
- After the initial fermentation in the rumen, the food moves to the abomasum for further chemical breakdown.
- The abomasum contains high concentrations of hydrochloric acid and enzymes that allow the animal to extract maximum nutritional value from its fibrous diet.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.