English Reference
noun

intestine

n.
US /ˌɪnˈtɛstən/ UK /ɪntˈɛstɪn/ in·tes·tine UK spelling intestine's, intestine's

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Medicine

    the long, coiled tube in your body that processes food after it leaves the stomach.

    the tubular part of the digestive system that extends from the stomach to the anus.

    Simple

    Nutrients from your food are absorbed into the blood through the walls of the small intestine.

    In context

    The surgeon examined the small intestine for signs of obstruction before proceeding with the rest of the abdominal procedure.

    Usage

    Often used in the plural 'intestines' when referring to the organ as a whole in a general sense.

    gutbowelalimentary canal
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Medicine

    one of the two main parts of this tube, known as the small or large intestine.

    a specific anatomical subdivision of the alimentary canal, typically categorized as small or large.

    Simple

    The large intestine is responsible for absorbing water from waste material.

    In context

    Chronic inflammation in the large intestine can lead to significant discomfort and requires long-term dietary management.

    bowel segment

Enzymes in the intestine can also produce it from glucose after a meal.

ScienceDaily· 6 Sept 2026

Etymology 1

From Latin intestīnum, neuter of intestīnus (“internal”), as Etymology 2, below.

Etymology 2

From Latin intestīnus (“internal”), from intus (“within”).

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin intestīnum
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated