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.
When combined with a digital rectal exam, a PSA test can allow doctors to more accurately predict a person’s risk of having prostate cancer. Luisel Ricks-Santi, The Conversation, 20 May 2025 In such cases, cancer can be diagnosed via a rectal exam or an MRI. Ken Alltucker, USA Today, 20 May 2025 Screening for prostate cancer typically involves a blood test and a digital rectal exam, and guidelines vary for when men should talk to their doctor about it. Rachel Treisman, NPR, 19 May 2025 Doctors can perform a range of tests, from a digital rectal exam to a blood test, to determine whether a patient has prostate cancer. Chad De Guzman, Time, 19 May 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Rectal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rectal. Accessed 2 Jun. 2025.

Medical Definition

rectal

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

More from Merriam-Webster on rectal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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