digestive system

noun

: the bodily system concerned with the ingestion, digestion, and absorption of food and the discharge of residual wastes and consisting of the digestive tract and accessory glands (such as the salivary glands and the pancreas) that secrete digestive enzymes

Examples of digestive system in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Besides keeping you full, fiber can also help your digestive system hum along a little better. —Caroline Tien, SELF, 17 July 2024

Previous studies have reported that people younger than age 50 are experiencing higher rates of certain types of cancers, particularly those of the digestive system. —Lauren J. Young, Scientific American, 10 July 2024

Find What Works Best for You Regarding pre-, intra-, and post-run fueling, every runner's digestive system and energy needs are unique. —Aviv Joshua, Verywell Health, 9 July 2024

Immature or underdeveloped digestive systems are unable to break down food. —Anita K. Henry, Parents, 1 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1790, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

digestive system

noun

: the bodily system concerned with the intake, breakdown, and absorption of food and the discharge of wastes and that includes the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, intestine, anus, and glands (as the salivary glands)

Medical Definition

digestive system

noun

: the bodily system concerned with the ingestion, digestion, and absorption of food and the discharge of residual wastes and consisting of the digestive tract and accessory glands (such as the salivary glands and the pancreas) that secrete digestive enzymes

called also alimentary system