alimentary canal

noun

variants or less commonly alimentary tract
: digestive tract

Examples of alimentary canal in a Sentence

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These then get snared in their alimentary canals, cannot be broken down by the animals’ digestive enzymes and may ultimately kill them. — The Economist, 12 Mar. 2020 The gastrointestinal tract, commonly referred to as the gut, consists of a series of hollow organs that allow food to travel from the mouth to the alimentary canal. — William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 6 Jan. 2023 Other entry points include the alimentary canal, through activities like eating or drinking, where enteroviruses may find access. — Amanda Castro, Newsweek, 27 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1730, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of alimentary canal was in 1730

Rhymes for alimentary canal

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Browse Nearby Words

alimentary
alimentary canal
alimentary castration
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Cite this Entry

“Alimentary canal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alimentary%20canal. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

alimentary canal

noun
: a long tube made up of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine into which food is taken and digested and from which wastes are passed out

Medical Definition

alimentary canal

noun
variants or alimentary tract
: digestive tract

More from Merriam-Webster on alimentary canal

Nglish: Translation of alimentary canal for Spanish Speakers

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