caecum
|cae-cum|
/ˈsiːkəm, ˈsiːsəm/
blind pouch at start of the large intestine
Etymology
'caecum' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'caecum', where 'caecus' meant 'blind'.
'caecum' came into English via Medieval/Neo-Latin medical usage (Latin 'caecum') and has been retained in modern anatomical terminology.
Initially, it meant 'blind (pouch)' in Latin and over time has retained the anatomical sense of a 'blind-ended pouch' at the start of the large intestine.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
anatomy: the pouch forming the beginning of the large intestine (colon) at the junction with the small intestine (ileum); a blind-ended sac to which the appendix is attached.
The surgeon examined the patient's caecum during the operation.
Synonyms
Noun 2
zoology: a pouch or sac in the digestive tract of some animals (including certain herbivores and invertebrates) that often aids in fermentation or digestion.
In many herbivores the caecum harbors bacteria that help break down cellulose.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
relating to or situated at the caecum (used chiefly in medical contexts).
The patient was diagnosed with caecal inflammation.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2026/01/02 12:11