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

Taking probiotics while taking antibiotics may help support your gut health and improve digestion. —Emmanuella Ogbonna, Health, 8 Nov. 2025

Some of the biggest perks of feeding pumpkin to your dog are the nutrients that support the immune system, promote a healthy coat and aid digestion. —Cody Godwin, USA Today, 7 Nov. 2025

From black beans to lentils and chickpeas, videos under the hashtag — which have garnered millions of views — show people cooking, blending and even eating beans straight from the can in the hopes of better digestion, clearer skin and an improved mood. —Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 6 Nov. 2025

The experimental once-weekly drug, eloralintide, belongs to the class of drugs that mimic the pancreatic hormone amylin which slows digestion and suppresses hunger. —Reuters, NBC news, 6 Nov. 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