Definition

A part of the small intestine located between the duodenum and the ileum, which is responsible for the absorption of nutrients.

Example

The jejunum plays a crucial role in digesting food and absorbing nutrients.

Conversation

I was reading about the jejunum in my biology book yesterday.

Oh really? What did it say about it?

It mentioned that the jejunum is a crucial part of the small intestine.

That makes sense, I know it's involved in nutrient absorption!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Jejunum** → The word comes from Latin *jejunus*, meaning fasting or hungry. The jejunum is the part of the small intestine that is empty after a person has not eaten for a while, hence its name.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word for fasting ('jejunus') to remember that the jejunum is the part of the intestine that is often empty after not eating.

Visually Confused Words