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

Many then offer a personalized roadmap of foods to eat, foods to avoid and probiotics to buy, with aspirational pitches around better digestion, energy, weight, mood and even longevity. —Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 June 2026

Key Takeaways Whole-grain bread in a PB&J sandwich slows digestion and causes a smaller blood sugar spike compared to white bread. —Sarah Jividen, Verywell Health, 17 June 2026

The microbiome is known to affect our immune system, digestion and even potentially our brains. —Joseph Kim, NPR, 16 June 2026

Oatmeal is packed with fiber, which can improve digestion, lower cholesterol, and promote a healthy gut microbiome. —Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 15 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