nutrition

noun

nu·​tri·​tion nu̇-ˈtri-shən  nyu̇- 

1

: the act or process of nourishing or being nourished

specifically : the sum of the processes by which an animal or plant takes in and utilizes food substances

foods that are necessary for human nutrition

2

: nourishment sense 1

… get adequate nutrition both before and during the race.

—John Hanc

nutritional

nu̇-ˈtri-sh(ə-)nəl 

nyu̇-

adjective

nutritionally adverb

Examples of nutrition in a Sentence

The speaker discussed diet and nutrition with the class.

good nutrition and proper exercise

Recent Examples on the Web

Engage In Scientifically Curated Physical Activity To Reduce Back Pain Maintaining overall health is paramount, encompassing balanced nutrition, regular exercise and a harmonious mind-body connection. —Richard Menger Md Mpa, Forbes, 1 Jan. 2025

The majority of the questions ask about common health metrics (such as blood pressure and cholesterol) and behaviors (including exercise and nutrition), illustrating the fact that the healthier your body is, the healthier your mind is. —Christina Caron, New York Times, 30 Dec. 2024

But experts are concerned that an overreliance on pouches, despite their convenience, can affect a child’s nutrition, food preferences, dental hygiene and speech development. —Defne Karabatur, Los Angeles Times, 30 Dec. 2024

One study in 2020 found that inadequate nutrition can significantly contribute to fatigue in older adults.7 Personality Traits Individuals who are high achievers may struggle to fully relax, said Ahrabi-Nejad. —Caitlin Pagán, Verywell Health, 28 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English nutricioun, from Late Latin nutrition-, nutritio, from Latin nutrire

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

nutrition

noun

nu·​tri·​tion n(y)u̇-ˈtrish-ən 

1

: the act or process of nourishing or being nourished

especially : the processes by which an animal or plant takes in and makes use of food substances

2

: nourishment sense 1

Medical Definition

nutrition

noun

nu·​tri·​tion n(y)u̇-ˈtrish-ən 

1

: the act or process of nourishing or being nourished

specifically : the sum of the processes by which an animal or plant takes in and utilizes food substances

2

: food sense 1, nourishment

nutritional

-ˈtrish-nəl, -ən-ᵊl 

adjective

nutritionally

-ē 

adverb