Etymology
Jejunum is derived from the adjective jejune, which means "fasting" or "hungry" in Early Modern English. It was so called because this portion of the intestine was found "empty" following death, thanks to the intensive peristaltic activity in this part of the small intestine.
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Famous quotes containing the word etymology:
“Semantically, taste is rich and confusing, its etymology as odd and interesting as that of “style.” But while style—deriving from the stylus or pointed rod which Roman scribes used to make marks on wax tablets—suggests activity, taste is more passive.... Etymologically, the word we use derives from the Old French, meaning touch or feel, a sense that is preserved in the current Italian word for a keyboard, tastiera.”
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