digestion

noun

di·​ges·​tion dī-ˈjes-chən 

də-, 

-ˈjesh-

: the action, process, or power of digesting: such as

a

: the process of making food absorbable by mechanically and enzymatically breaking it down into simpler chemical compounds in the digestive tract

b

: the process in sewage treatment by which organic matter in sludge is decomposed by anaerobic bacteria with the release of a burnable mixture of gases

Examples of digestion in a Sentence

an enzyme that aids in the digestion of protein

She began to suffer from poor digestion as she grew older.

Recent Examples on the Web

Staying hydrated and exercising regularly helps keep digestion moving and reduces the risk of issues like constipation and colon cancer. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 6 May 2026

Thus far, that digestion phase has been relatively orderly and has taken place while remaining above its key 50-day moving average. —Frank Cappelleri, CNBC, 6 May 2026

Consuming protein and fiber together slows digestion and increases satiety (feeling of fullness). —Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 4 May 2026

Yogurt is packed with nutrients like calcium, probiotics, and protein, which help strengthen bones and aid digestion. —Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 2 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for digestion

• congestion
• ingestion
• suggestion
• gestion
• question
• indigestion

Kids Definition

digestion

noun

di·​ges·​tion dī-ˈjes-chən 

də-

: the process by which food is broken down into simpler forms in the body by mechanical and enzymatic means

Medical Definition

digestion

noun

di·​ges·​tion dī-ˈjes(h)-chən, də- 

: the action, process, or power of digesting

especially : the process of making food absorbable by mechanically and enzymatically breaking it down into simpler chemical compounds in the digestive tract