ALIMENTARY CANAL Meaning and
Definition
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The alimentary canal refers to an essential part of the digestive system in vertebrate animals, including humans, through which food passes from ingestion to elimination. Also known as the digestive tract or gastrointestinal tract, the alimentary canal is an elongated muscular tube that begins at the mouth and ends at the anus. It consists of several interconnected organs and structures that contribute to the process of digestion and absorption of nutrients.
The various components of the alimentary canal include the oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum. Each segment of the canal has distinct functions in the process of digestion. For example, the oral cavity initiates digestion through the mechanical and chemical breakdown of food through mastication and enzymatic action. The stomach continues the digestive process by secreting acids and digestive enzymes, while the small intestine facilitates nutrient absorption into the bloodstream. The large intestine further absorbs water and electrolytes from the remaining food residue, forming feces, which are then eliminated through the rectum.
Through peristalsis, a coordinated muscular contraction movement, the alimentary canal propels food along its length. The canal also communicates with accessory organs such as the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas, which secrete digestive enzymes and substances necessary for efficient digestion and nutrient breakdown. Overall, the alimentary canal is vital for the ingestion, digestion, absorption, and elimination processes that contribute to maintaining proper nutrition and overall health.
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The mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, and intestine.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ALIMENTARY CANAL
- zlimentary canal
- slimentary canal
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- qlimentary canal
- akimentary canal
- apimentary canal
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- alumentary canal
- aljmentary canal
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- al9mentary canal
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- alinentary canal
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- alimwntary canal
- alimsntary canal
- alimdntary canal
Etymology of ALIMENTARY CANAL
The word "alimentary canal" has an etymology rooted in Latin.
The term "alimentary" is derived from the Latin word "alimentum", which means "nourishment" or "food".
The word "canal" also comes from Latin, originating from the word "canalis", meaning "pipe" or "channel".
Therefore, when combined, "alimentary" and "canal" create the term "alimentary canal", which refers to the long tube-like structure or system in the body responsible for the digestion and absorption of food.
Similar spelling words for ALIMENTARY CANAL
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