anus

views updated Jun 27 2018

anus In most animals, but not in coelenterates or Platyhelminthes, the exterior opening of the alimentary canal through which are expelled the unabsorbed remainder of food items, solid excretion products, and bacteria associated with both. In some aquatic invertebrates the posterior end of the alimentary canal is also used in respiration.

anus

views updated May 29 2018

a·nus / ˈānəs/ • n. Anat. & Zool. the opening at the end of the alimentary canal through which solid waste matter leaves the body.

anus

views updated May 11 2018

anus The terminal opening of the alimentary canal in most animals, through which indigestible material (faeces) is expelled.

anus

views updated May 21 2018

anus (ay-nŭs) n. the opening at the lower end of the alimentary canal, through which the faeces are discharged. It opens out from the anal canal and is guarded by two sphincters.
anal adj.

anus

views updated May 29 2018

anus XV. — L. ānus orig. ring.
So anal XVIII. — modL.