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small intestine

Definition

The small intestine is a long, narrow tube that is part of the digestive system. It is where most of the digestion and absorption of food takes place.

The small intestine is about 20 feet long and is located in the abdomen. It is divided into three parts: the duodenum, the jejunum, and the ileum.

The duodenum is the first part of the small intestine. It is where food from the stomach enters the small intestine. The jejunum is the middle part of the small intestine. It is where most of the digestion and absorption of food takes place. The ileum is the last part of the small intestine. It is where the remaining nutrients from food are absorbed.

The walls of the small intestine are lined with villi, which are small, finger-like projections. The villi increase the surface area of the small intestine, which helps to absorb nutrients from food.

The small intestine is a very important part of the digestive system. It is where most of the digestion and absorption of food takes place. This allows us to get the nutrients we need to stay healthy.

How can the word be used?

The small intestine is divided into three parts: the duodenum, the jejunum, and the ileum.

small intestine

Different forms of the word

Noun:

  • small intestine.
  • small bowel.
  • intestinum tenue.

Adjective:

  • small intestinal.

Etymology

According to the Online Etymology Dictionary, the word "small intestine" is first recorded in English in 1543. It is derived from the Middle English word "small" and the Latin word "intestinum", which means "entrails" or "innards".

The word "small" is derived from the Old English word "smæl", which also means "small".

The word "intestinum" is derived from the Latin word "intestinus", which also means "inward" or "interior".

Question

What does the small intestine do?