Intestines: meaning, definitions and examples

Use in medical or scientific contexts when referring to the lower part of the digestive system, which includes both the small and large intestines.

• The doctors examined the patient's intestines for any signs of blockage.
• During the surgery, they found that the intestines were inflamed.

Commonly used in both medical contexts and everyday language when discussing the entire digestive system, especially focusing on the large intestine. It is also used metaphorically to refer to the innermost parts of something.

• She felt a sharp pain in her bowels.
• Explorers ventured into the bowels of the cave.

Commonly used in informal or colloquial settings to refer to the internal organs, especially the intestines. Can also metaphorically mean courage or bravery. Using 'guts' in reference to internal organs often has a raw, unrefined connotation.

• He had guts spilling out after the accident.
• It takes guts to stand up for what you believe in.

Often used in literary or dramatic contexts to describe the internal organs, primarily intestines, of humans or animals. It is also used to convey a sense of horror or disgust.

• The hunter examined the entrails of the deer to predict the weather.
• The horror movie depicted scenes with entrails to shock the audience.