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DictionaryduodenumFirst section of the small intestine
noun

duodenum

doo-uh-DEE-num/ˌduːəˈdiːnəm/

The first section of the small intestine, immediately after the stomach.

The duodenum curves from the stomach around the head of the pancreas.

Clean anatomical diagram showing stomach joining the C-shaped duodenum around pancreatic head, duodenum gold, other gut muted, no labels.
Etymology
duodenumLatintwelve each

The Latin numeral “twelve each” points to an anatomical measurement: this first stretch of the small intestine was named for its length of about twelve fingerbreadths.

In context

Nuttall's Biology10:29
the first segment of the small intestine is known as the duodenum
Digestive System Part 1

More examples

  • The diagram shows the duodenum’s curved shape.
  • The anatomy lesson focused on the duodenum.
  • The scan included the upper intestine and duodenum.

Forms

duodenum · duodenums · duodena

Similar words

jejunum
The jejunum follows the duodenum in the small intestine.
stomach
The stomach precedes the duodenum and is a separate organ.