consumption

noun

con·​sump·​tion kən-ˈsəm(p)-shən 

1

a

: the act or process of consuming

consumption of food

consumption of resources

b

: use by or exposure to a particular group or audience

The document was not intended for public consumption.

2

: use of something

the jet's high consumption of fuel

the consumption of electricity

3

a

: tuberculosis

b

: a progressive wasting away of the body especially from pulmonary tuberculosis

Examples of consumption in a Sentence

The jet's high fuel consumption makes it expensive to operate.

Recent Examples on the Web

Equipped with an intelligent liquid cooling system to lower consumption by over 30%, SunGiga addresses the excess heat generated by energy storage systems to ensure enhanced performance and energy density. —Kody Boye, USA TODAY, 19 Sep. 2024

The company has tried to adapt to changes in consumption patterns by developing its online sales and entering into distribution agreements with chain stores, but has been unable to halt its slide. —Afp, Fortune, 18 Sep. 2024

Though human research on its health effects is limited, animal studies suggest that nutmeg consumption can boost antioxidant status, protect against cellular damage, and improve blood sugar and blood lipid levels. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 18 Sep. 2024

Plenty of literature shows a benefit from caffeine consumption. —Madeline Holcombe, CNN, 17 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English consumpcioun, from Latin consumption-, consumptio, from consumere — see consume

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing consumption

• conspicuous consumption

Kids Definition

consumption

noun

con·​sump·​tion kən-ˈsəm(p)-shən 

1

a

: the act or process of consuming

b

: the amount consumed

2

a

: a gradual and continuous wasting away of the body especially from tuberculosis of the lungs

b

: tuberculosis

Medical Definition

consumption

noun

con·​sump·​tion kən-ˈsəm(p)-shən 

1

: a progressive wasting away of the body especially from pulmonary tuberculosis

2

: tuberculosis