digestive

1 of 2

noun

di·​ges·​tive dī-ˈje-stiv 

də-

: an aid to digestion especially of food

digestive

2 of 2

adjective

1

: relating to or functioning in digestion

the digestive system

digestive disorders

digestive organs

2

: having the power to cause or promote digestion

digestive enzymes

digestively adverb

Examples of digestive in a Sentence

Adjective

the digestive system of the body

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Starting with a small amount may help prevent digestive upset, but see a healthcare provider if bloating or other symptoms are severe or don't improve. —Christopher Bergland, Verywell Health, 9 Jan. 2026

The high fiber of beans adds to this problem, as our digestive processes fiber in the same way. —Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 30 Dec. 2025

Adjective

In healthy people, gut bacteria coexist peacefully and play an essential role in digestive health — but in Crohn’s patients, the immune system appears to mount an abnormal response against the microbes, experts say. —Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 13 Jan. 2026

Fiber is important for digestive and heart health. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 13 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing digestive

• digestive gland
• digestive system
• digestive tract

Rhymes for digestive

• congestive
• suggestive
• festive
• restive

Kids Definition

digestive

adjective

di·​ges·​tive

dī-ˈjes-tiv, 

də-

1

: of or relating to digestion

digestive processes

2

: having the power to cause or help digestion

digestive enzymes

Medical Definition

digestive

1 of 2 noun

di·​ges·​tive -ˈjes-tiv 

1

: something that aids digestion especially of food compare digestant

2

: a substance which promotes suppuration

digestive

2 of 2 adjective

1

: relating to or functioning in digestion

digestive processes

2

: having the power to cause or promote digestion

digestive enzymes

digestively adverb

digestiveness noun