indigestion

noun

in·​di·​ges·​tion ˌin-(ˌ)dī-ˈjes-chən 

-ˈjesh-

1

: inability to digest or difficulty in digesting something

2

: a case or attack of indigestion marked especially by a burning sensation or discomfort in the upper abdomen

Examples of indigestion in a Sentence

The patient complained of indigestion and nausea.

I like spicy foods but they always give me indigestion.

Recent Examples on the Web

Symptoms range in severity from itchy hives or a rash to nausea and vomiting, indigestion, heartburn, a drop in blood pressure, swelling of the lips or face, dizziness or fainting, and severe stomach pain. —Brenda Goodman, CNN Money, 14 Nov. 2025

And, in certain instances, abdominal cramps and indigestion have prevented me from even being able to get out the door in the first place. —Julia Ries Wexler, Outside, 5 Nov. 2025

Among those health issues were constant headaches, migraines and indigestion. —Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 5 Nov. 2025

The oncologist noted that most women with ovarian cancer get diagnosed too late because their abdominal symptoms often get misdiagnosed as reflux, indigestion or a urinary tract infection. —Karu F Daniels, Mercury News, 24 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing indigestion

• acid indigestion

Rhymes for indigestion

• congestion
• digestion
• ingestion
• suggestion
• gestion
• question

Kids Definition

indigestion

noun

in·​di·​ges·​tion ˌin-dī-ˈjes-chən 

-də-

1

: inability to digest or difficulty in digesting something

2

: a case or attack of indigestion marked especially by a burning or uncomfortable feeling in the upper stomach

Medical Definition

indigestion

noun

in·​di·​ges·​tion -jes(h)-chən 

1

: inability to digest or difficulty in digesting food : incomplete or imperfect digestion of food

2

: a case or attack of indigestion marked especially by pain, discomfort, or a burning sensation in the upper abdomen often accompanied by abdominal bloating, nausea, belching, flatulence, or uncomfortable fullness