sigmoidoscope

[ sig-moi-duh-skohp ]

noun

1. a rigid or flexible endoscope for visual examination of the rectum and sigmoid colon.

sigmoidoscope

/ ˌsɪɡmɔɪdˈɒskəpɪ; sɪɡˌmɔɪdəˈskɒpɪk; sɪɡˈmɔɪdəˌskəʊp /

noun

1. an instrument incorporating a light for the direct observation of the colon, rectum, and sigmoid flexure

Derived Forms

• sigmoidoscopy, noun
• sigmoidoscopic, adjective

Other Words From

• sig·moid·o·scop·ic [sig-moi-d, uh, -, skop, -ik], adjective
• sig·moid·os·co·pist [sig-moi-, dos, -k, uh, -pist], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of sigmoidoscope¹

1900–05; sigmoid ( flexure ) + -o- + -scope

Example Sentences

For decades, oncologists have debated the merits of screening for colorectal cancer with a sigmoidoscope, and the new National Cancer Institute study aims to put this long-standing debate to rest.

From Nature