Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
rumen
noun
/ˈruː.mən/
Definition
The rumen is the first stomach compartment of ruminant animals, where the fermentation of ingested food occurs.
Examples
- The cow’s rumen breaks down fibrous plant material through microbial fermentation.
- Ruminants rely on their rumen to efficiently digest tough grasses and other plant matter.
Meaning
It is a large, fermentation chamber in the digestive system of certain animals, such as cows and sheep, that helps break down food, particularly plant materials, before it moves to the other stomach compartments for further digestion.
Synonyms
- None specific
