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

Eating foods that reduce inflammation may improve gut health and digestion. —Robert Burakoff, Verywell Health, 27 May 2025

Liver enzymes are essential for processing nutrients, removing harmful substances, and helping digestion. —Suchandrima Bhowmik, Health, 24 May 2025

The scientists found that hundreds of metabolites — products of digestion and other processes — corresponded to the percentage of energy a person consumes from ultraprocessed foods. —Jonel Aleccia, Los Angeles Times, 21 May 2025

DeCicco told Fox News Digital that fiber can help with disease prevention, weight loss, lowering cholesterol and digestion issues such as constipation. —Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 15 May 2025

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