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Gastrointestinal: meaning, definitions and examples

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gastrointestinal

 

[ ˌɡæstroʊɪnˈtɛstɪnəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

medical terminology

The term 'gastrointestinal' refers to anything related to the stomach and intestines. It is commonly used to describe disorders, diseases, and physiology associated with the digestive system. This term is often encountered in medical fields and discussions about digestive health.

Synonyms

digestive, intestinal, stomach-related

Examples of usage

  • Gastrointestinal diseases can affect nutrient absorption.
  • The gastrointestinal tract plays a crucial role in digestion.
  • She is studying gastrointestinal physiology in her medical program.

Word origin

The word 'gastrointestinal' is derived from two components: 'gastro-', a prefix that originates from the Greek word 'gaster', meaning 'stomach', and 'intestinal', which comes from the Latin term 'intestinus', meaning 'internal' or 'internal organ'. The combination of these terms results in a word that specifically refers to the system that includes the stomach and intestines. The usage of 'gastrointestinal' in the medical literature can be traced back to the early 20th century, reflecting increased interest in the human digestive system and its diseases. Over time, the term has become essential in both clinical and research settings, often appearing in discussions regarding gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, and other digestive health issues.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,233, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.