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

General Anxiety/Relaxation/Weight Loss Supplements Products marketed as weight-loss, detox, insomnia, or relaxation supplements often contain multiple herbs and ingredients that affect digestion or liver enzymes. —Sara Hoffman, Verywell Health, 11 Jan. 2026

Helps Gut Health Though not often considered a popular gut food, olive oil (especially extra-virgin olive oil) has surprising benefits for digestion. —Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 10 Jan. 2026

These nutrients feed beneficial bacteria in your gut, which may support digestion and immune function. —Zia Sherrell, Health, 10 Jan. 2026

These programs address issues such as stress, burnout, digestion problems, and sleep quality. —Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 9 Jan. 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