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

Simply cooking the peppers well to break down the fibers further can help potentially reduce digestive upset. —Bridget Shirvell, Martha Stewart, 8 Apr. 2026

Mild symptoms such as digestive upset, nausea, headache, or stomach discomfort could occur if a very large quantity of citrus seeds were ingested. —Stacey Lastoe, Southern Living, 30 Jan. 2026

Adjective

This leads to digestive symptoms, such as diarrhea and gas, after consuming lactose-containing foods like milk. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 16 Apr. 2026

These compounds are associated with reduced inflammation and improved digestive health. —Leeann Weintraub, Daily News, 15 Apr. 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