digestion

noun

di·​ges·​tion dī-ˈjes-chən How to pronounce digestion (audio)
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 The peel packs more fiber than the fruit inside, which helps with digestion and promotes gut health. Nick Blackmer, Verywell Health, 19 Apr. 2024 During digestion, physiological responses are triggered in the brain by the vagus nerve, contributing to the feeling of fullness. Andrew Chapman, Longreads, 18 Apr. 2024 But Take Note This powder contains a digestive enzyme blend, including lactase, amylase, and lipase, which are generally considered safe and may improve digestion in some. Alexandra Paetow Ms Rdn, Parents, 15 Apr. 2024 Potato skins are high in fiber, which aids digestion. Katie Mogg, NBC News, 14 Apr. 2024 The root was used to help with digestion and provide relief for rheumatism. Discover Magazine, 4 Apr. 2024 Prunes have historically been known to assist with digestion and elimination. Sheah Rarback, Miami Herald, 22 Mar. 2024 Ginger has been shown in studies to encourage digestion and aid in nausea related to bloating, gas, pregnancy and chemotherapy. Hannah Yasharoff, USA TODAY, 7 Apr. 2024 The length list of ingredients allows consumers to get plenty of support in their gut, their digestion, and any other part of the body that can impact it. Michael Carroll, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'digestion.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of digestion was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near digestion

Cite this Entry

“Digestion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/digestion. Accessed 26 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

digestion

noun
di·​ges·​tion dī-ˈjes-chən How to pronounce digestion (audio)
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- How to pronounce digestion (audio)
: 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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