The alimentary duct is a passage through which food passes in the digestive system. Its spelling is based on the Latin root "alimentum" meaning "food." The word is pronounced as [ælɪ'mɛntəri dʌkt]. The phonetic transcription shows that the primary stress is on the second syllable, which is pronounced with the vowel sound of "i." The "a" in "alimentary" is pronounced with the "æ" sound, as in "cat," while the "u" in "duct" is pronounced with the "ʌ" sound, as in "cup."
The alimentary duct, also known as the digestive tract or gastrointestinal tract, is a complex tube-like structure that runs from the mouth to the anus in vertebrate organisms. It is responsible for the ingestion, digestion, absorption, and elimination of food and waste.
The alimentary duct is composed of distinct regions, including the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum. Each segment of the alimentary duct serves a specific function in the digestion and absorption process. For instance, the mouth is involved in the mechanical breakdown of food through chewing, while the stomach secretes acids and enzymes to further break down food particles.
The primary function of the alimentary duct is to facilitate the digestion and absorption of nutrients from food. Food travels through the duct, and along the way, it undergoes both mechanical and chemical processes to break down complex molecules into simpler forms that can be absorbed into the bloodstream. The nutrients are then utilized by the body for energy, growth, and maintenance.
The alimentary duct also plays a crucial role in the elimination of waste products from the body. Undigested food, water, and other waste materials pass through the large intestine and are eventually eliminated as feces through the rectum and anus.
In summary, the alimentary duct is a vital system in the human body responsible for the intake, digestion, absorption, and excretion of nutrients. It ensures that essential components from food are extracted and utilized for various bodily functions, while waste materials are efficiently eliminated.
Ductus thoracicus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The etymology of the word "alimentary duct" can be broken down as follows:
1. Alimentary: The word "alimentary" comes from the Latin term "alimentarius", which means "pertaining to food" or "nourishing". It is derived from the Latin word "alimentum", meaning "nourishment" or "sustenance".
2. Duct: The word "duct" is derived from the Latin term "ductus", which means "a conduit" or "a channel". It comes from the Latin verb "ducere", meaning "to lead" or "to carry".
Therefore, the term "alimentary duct" refers to a passage or channel through which food or nourishment is carried or transmitted. It is often used to indicate the various passages in the human body involved in the digestion and absorption of food, such as the esophagus, stomach, and intestines.