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

Pairing white rice with protein and fiber can help lower its impact on blood sugar levels by slowing digestion. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 27 Jan. 2025

This greens powder is said to relieve bloat, support digestion, and increased promote energy. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 15 Jan. 2025

Pairing your eggs with a bagel, English muffin or toast that's made of white or even whole wheat flour has been linked to inflammation, digestion disruption and belly fat production. —Angelica Stabile, Fox News, 15 Jan. 2025

After an unusually strong two-year surge, Peter Oppenheimer, Goldman’s chief global equity strategist, said there could be a short-term digestion period for stocks before further gains can be made. —Alex Harring, CNBC, 10 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

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