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Glite Dictionary
vermiform process

vermiform process

7.0
A small narrow tube at the lower end of the large intestine known as the appendix
  • noun
  • /ˈvɜrmɪˌfɔrm ˈprɔsɛs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : apéndice vermiforme
  • Inflammation of the vermiform process can lead to a condition known as appendicitis.

Examples

  • Doctors removed the patient's vermiform process during an emergency appendectomy.

  • In anatomical diagrams, the vermiform process is illustrated as a narrow tube attached to the cecum.

  • The vermiform process is often removed during an appendectomy.

  • Surgeons frequently encounter the vermiform process during abdominal surgeries.

  • Doctors removed the patient's vermiform process during an emergency appendectomy.

  • Inflammation of the vermiform process can lead to a condition known as appendicitis.

  • In anatomical diagrams, the vermiform process is illustrated as a narrow tube attached to the cecum.

Synonyms

appendix
vsvermiform process
  • Specialized
40 5.4

A small tube at the lower end of the large intestine that can become infected

is a more anatomical label focusing on shape and location
vermiform appendix
vsvermiform process
  • Specialized
6.3

A narrow tube of tissue attached to the lower end of the large intestine

is the common name used for the same worm-shaped pouch
cecal appendage
vsvermiform process
  • Specialized
8.2

A small pouch attached to the lower right part of the large intestine

emphasizes its name rather than stressing vestigial nature

Surface Forms

vermiform process singular
vermiform processes plural

Morphology

vermiform + process

The meaning 'a worm-shaped projection' is directly and compositionally derivable from 'vermiform' (worm-shaped) + 'process' (a physical projection). Although the phrase is technical anatomical terminology, its structure is transparent and follows standard English noun modification, so a learner who knows both constituents would be able to infer the MWE's meaning.

Etymology

Vermiform process comes from words meaning vermiform 'worm-shaped' and process 'a thing that sticks out'. The name gives a clear picture: it is the small, worm-like tube attached to the large intestine, which we call the 'appendix'.