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

There are two types of dietary fibers: soluble fiber, which mixes with water to create a gel that slows digestion per the U.S. National Library of Medicine. —Korin Miller, Flow Space, 25 June 2025

Castor oil packs are a popular home remedy used to support pain relief, digestion, lymphatic flow, and skin health. —Lindsay Curtis, Health, 25 June 2025

It's also loaded with nutrients that support bone health, red blood cell production, digestion, and weight loss.2 1. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 23 June 2025

Slowing down results in eating less and may lead to healthier weight, digestion, and glucose levels. —Matt Fuchs, Time, 17 June 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