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jejunum
noun
je·ju·num
ji-ˈjü-nəm
plural jejuna
ji-ˈjü-nə
: the section of the small intestine that comprises the first two fifths beyond the duodenum and that is larger, thicker-walled, and more vascular and has more circular folds than the ileum
Examples of jejunum in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The duodenum and the ileum are connected together, bypassing the jejunum.
—Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 5 July 2024
The diameters of the jejunum and ileum remained stable, maintaining a favorable jejunum-to-ileum ratio, and the strength of the anastomosis improved.
—The Salt Lake Tribune, 16 Aug. 2023
In each subject a gas mixture was continuously infused into the jejunum (12 ml/min) for three hours, and gas evacuation, clearance of a non- absorbable gaseous marker, perception, and abdominal girth were measured.
—Seriously Science, Discover Magazine, 3 July 2015
In the case of one American gentleman, erosions into his esophagus formed a passageway from his lung into his gut, allowing for one plombe to escape and journey through his stomach, duodenum, and finally to his jejunum (9).
—Rebecca Kreston, Discover Magazine, 1 May 2015
The primary function of the jejunum is to absorb water and nutrients from food—specifically, sugars, amino acids, and fatty acids—so damage in this area can lead to nutrient deficiencies and diarrhea.
—SELF, 11 Feb. 2022
View Sample Sign Up Now Instead, the sugar and other components of fruit quickly move farther down the small intestine to the jejunum and ileum.
—Markham Heid, Time, 6 June 2018
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Word History
Etymology
Middle English, from Medieval Latin, from neuter of Latin jejunus
First Known Use
14th century, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of jejunum was
in the 14th century
Dictionary Entries Near jejunum
Cite this Entry
“Jejunum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jejunum. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
jejunum
noun
je·ju·num
ji-ˈjü-nəm
: the section of the small intestine between the duodenum and the ileum
Medical Definition
jejunum
noun
je·ju·num
ji-ˈjü-nəm
plural jejuna
-nə
: the section of the small intestine that comprises the first two fifths beyond the duodenum and that is larger, thicker-walled, and more vascular and has more circular folds and fewer Peyer's patches than the ileum
More from Merriam-Webster on jejunum
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about jejunum
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