sigmoid

[ sig-moid ]

adjective

1. shaped like the letter C.
2. shaped like the letter S.
3. of, relating to, or situated near the sigmoid flexure of the large intestine.

sigmoid

/ ˈsɪɡmɔɪd /

adjective

1. shaped like the letter S
2. of or relating to the sigmoid colon of the large intestine

noun

1. See sigmoid colon

Other Words From

• sig·moidal·ly adverb
• post·sigmoid adjective
• postsig·moidal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of sigmoid¹

First recorded in 1660–70, sigmoid is from the Greek word sigmoeidḗs shaped like a sigma. See sigma, -oid

Word History and Origins

Origin of sigmoid¹

C17: from Greek sigmoeidēs sigma-shaped

Example Sentences

In July 2021, surgeons removed half of his colon due to a narrowing of the sigmoid portion of his large intestine.

From Washington Times

In July of 2021, Francis had half of his colon removed after a narrowing of the sigmoid portion of the large intestine, the Associated Press reported at the time.

From Washington Times

In surgeries like the one Francis most likely underwent, doctors excise a part of the colon called the sigmoid colon where diverticulitis is most common.

From New York Times

His full cause of death has been recorded by the coroner as "1a liver failure" and "1b metastatic sigmoid adenocarcinoma and systemic listeria infection".

From BBC

It’s a nice idea, but it’s still on the lower end of the sigmoid curve.

From The Guardian

Related Words

• arched
• crooked
• curvaceous
• elliptical
• rounded
• serpentine
• twisted
• twisting