1. A pouch or tube-shaped structure at the beginning of the large intestine, located where the small intestine joins it.
Usage: Also spelled cecum (U.S. variant).; Anatomical term.

Examples

• The caecum is part of the colon and plays a role in water absorption.
• In humans, the caecum is a small pouch at the junction of the small and large intestines.
• The appendix is a small tube attached to the caecum.
• Herbivores often have a larger caecum to help digest plant material.
• Inflammation of the caecum can cause abdominal pain.