colorectal

adjective

co·​lo·​rec·​tal ˌkō-lō-ˈrek-tᵊl How to pronounce colorectal (audio)
: relating to or affecting the colon and rectum
colorectal cancer

Examples of colorectal 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.
The Trump administration’s cuts to the National Institutes of Health are having dangerous consequences—one woman shares how her treatment has been delayed for her stage 4 colorectal cancer. Andrew Nusca, Fortune, 29 May 2025 The most common symptom of colorectal cancer among younger people is rectal bleeding. The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 May 2025 This early detection is crucial because colorectal cancer often develops slowly over several years. Walter Pavlo, Forbes.com, 24 May 2025 Robert Hanssen, a famous spy, died of colorectal cancer despite a lack of diagnosis. Bart Jansen, USA Today, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for colorectal

Word History

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of colorectal was in 1889

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Cite this Entry

“Colorectal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/colorectal. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

Medical Definition

colorectal

adjective
co·​lo·​rec·​tal ˌkō-lə-ˈrek-tᵊl, ˌkäl-ə- How to pronounce colorectal (audio)
: relating to or affecting the colon and the rectum
colorectal cancer
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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