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jejunum
The second and largest section of the small intestine, located between the duodenum and the ileum. The surface area of the lining of the jejunum is greatly increased by many small, finger-like outgrowths called villi. This makes it easier for digested material to be absorbed, which is the main function of the jejunum.
The word derives from the Latin jejunus, which means "empty of food" or "hungry." The ancient Greeks noticed at death that this part of the intestine was always empty of food.
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