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

Prior to her shift to farming, Molly Chester worked as a private chef in Los Angeles and was dedicated to techniques aiding digestion. — Ryan Gajewski, HollywoodReporter, 2 Oct. 2026

His teeth desert his mouth; his digestion revolts; his heart appears frequently to announce its forthcoming resignation. — Zain Khalid, Vulture, 1 Oct. 2026

These tiny organisms perform a host of functions including helping with digestion, making essential vitamins, and playing a role in immune function. — Brenda Goodman, CNN Money, 1 Oct. 2026

These nutrients aid digestion, lower LDL cholesterol, and may reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. — Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 30 Sep. 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