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

From smart food choices to better sleep routines, small changes can make a big difference for your digestion. —Julie Marks, Verywell Health, 21 Apr. 2026

Umami is a long-lasting sensation that stays on your tongue after eating, curbing appetite and aiding in digestion. —Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 18 Apr. 2026

The 31-year-old mom of two lives with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) and gastroparesis, the latter of which Mayo Clinic defines as a condition that prevents stomach muscles from moving in the proper way for food digestion. —Zoey Lyttle, PEOPLE, 17 Apr. 2026

Regular bowel movements are essential for overall health and support proper digestion. —Sherri Gordon, Health, 16 Apr. 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