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

Also consider calcium citrate, which is often a better fit for those with sensitive digestion, according to Manaker. — Taylor Lane, Flow Space, 30 June 2026

Fiber keeps your digestion smooth, feeds good gut bacteria, and helps control blood sugar. — Mura Dominko, Martha Stewart, 29 June 2026

Dogs have a different digestion system than humans. — Madeline Gunderson, USA Today, 26 June 2026

Resistant Starch Lowers Blood Sugar Resistant starch is a type of carbohydrate that isn't broken down into glucose during digestion, which reduces its impact on blood sugar. — Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 26 June 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