Proctologist

/prɑːkˈtɑːlədʒɪst/ noun

Definition

A doctor who specializes in treating diseases and conditions of the colon, rectum, and anus.

Etymology

From Greek 'proktos' meaning 'anus' or 'buttocks,' plus '-logist' (one who studies). The medical specialty developed in the 20th century as a distinct field.

Kelly Says

The Greek root 'proktos' is related to 'proctophobia' (fear of rectal examination) and shows how even doctors use Latin and Greek as a professional language partly to create professional distance from embarrassing body parts.

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