alimentary canal

noun

Pronunciation: ˌæl.ɪˈmen.tər.i kəˈnæl

Definition

The continuous muscular tube through which food passes during digestion, extending from the mouth to the anus.

Examples

• The alimentary canal is responsible for breaking down nutrients so the body can absorb them.

• Certain parasites are known to inhabit the alimentary canal of mammals.

• The length of the human alimentary canal is roughly nine meters.

Synonyms of alimentary canal

Words with a similar meaning to alimentary canal:

• digestive tract
• gut
• gastrointestinal tract
• alimentary tract

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