# anus

/ˈeɪnəs/ (US) · /ˈeɪnʌs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/anus
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the opening at the end of the digestive system where solid waste leaves the body.

For teachers: the distal opening of the alimentary canal through which solid waste is excreted from the body.

## Examples

- During a routine physical exam, the veterinarian inspected the dog's anus for any abnormalities or blockages.
- The evolution of a complete digestive tract, ending in a functional anus, allowed early organisms to process nutrients more efficiently than those with a single-opening system.

## Usage notes

- Primarily used in medical, biological, or anatomical contexts; often replaced by slang or euphemisms in casual conversation.

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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.