rectal

adjective

rec·​tal ˈrek-tᵊl How to pronounce rectal (audio)
: relating to, affecting, or being near the rectum
rectal walls
rectal cancer
rectally adverb

Examples of rectal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
In 1994, Barrie was diagnosed with rectal cancer, prompting her to raise awareness about the disease. — Andrea Flores, Los Angeles Times, 29 Oct. 2026 In a study of 154 people with this type of rectal cancer who were treated with dostarlimab, 68% had a complete clinical response at one year, which meant doctors could not see evidence of tumors on imaging or other methods for tracking the tumors. — Alice Park, Time, 21 Oct. 2026 For male models, the examinations include hernia, genital, rectal and prostate exams. — Daniel Hunt, Sacbee.com, 18 Oct. 2026 He was diagnosed with rectal cancer in March of that year, per NBC News. — Samantha Stutsman, PEOPLE, 29 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rectal

Word History

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rectal was in 1826

Rhymes for rectal

See All Rhymes for rectal

Browse Nearby Words

rectagonal
rectal
rectangle
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Cite this Entry

“Rectal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rectal. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Medical Definition

rectal

adjective
rec·​tal ˈrek-tᵊl How to pronounce rectal (audio)
: relating to, affecting, or being near the rectum
rectal bleeding
rectally
-ē How to pronounce rectal (audio)
adverb
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