alimentary canal

American  

noun

1. Anatomy, Zoology. a tubular passage functioning in the digestion and absorption of food and the elimination of food residue, beginning at the mouth and terminating at the anus.

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alimentary canal British  

noun

1. the tubular passage extending from the mouth to the anus, through which food is passed and digested

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alimentary canal Scientific  

/ ăl′ə-mĕn′tə-rē /

1. The tube or passage of the digestive system through which food passes, nutrients are absorbed, and waste is eliminated.

2. See also digestive tract

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Etymology

Origin of alimentary canal

First recorded in 1755–65

Example Sentences

Let’s not overlook how long it takes for a federal lawsuit to make its way through the judicial alimentary canal.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 6, 2025

Earthworms are an example of an animal with an alimentary canal.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

Lamina propria—In addition to loose connective tissue, the lamina propria contains numerous blood and lymphatic vessels that transport nutrients absorbed through the alimentary canal to other parts of the body.

From Textbooks • Jun. 19, 2013

These tissues serve to hold the alimentary canal in place near the ventral surface of the vertebral column.

From Textbooks • Jun. 19, 2013

Very foul, offensive discharges from the bowels may always be understood as showing that in the alimentary canal, whether originating there or in the blood, morbid changes have been going on.

From A System of Practical Medicine by American Authors, Vol. I Volume 1: Pathology and General Diseases by Various