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

These short-chain carbohydrates are poorly absorbed during digestion and ferment in the small intestine. —Roxana Ehsani, Health, 10 July 2024

Onions, for instance, contain antioxidants that lower one's risk of heart disease; and celery contains vitamin K and dietary fiber, which aid with digestion and blood sugar regulation. —Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 24 June 2024

This ecosystem of tiny stuff affects our health in ways science is only beginning to understand, facilitating digestion, metabolism, the immune response and more. —Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 20 June 2024

Bloating, constipation and sluggish digestion: the obvious tells of an unhappy gut. —Tracy Achonwa, Vogue, 13 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

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