indigestion

noun

in·​di·​ges·​tion ˌin-(ˌ)dī-ˈjes-chən How to pronounce indigestion (audio)
-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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Spicy foods: These foods can trigger heartburn or indigestion in some people. Aviv Joshua, Verywell Health, 13 June 2025 While something as mild as indigestion, gas, bloating or anxiety about an upcoming test or public speech can all cause varying degrees of tummy troubles, there are sometimes more serious medical issues to blame. Daryl Austin, USA Today, 5 June 2025 Other times, a voracious star eats too much of a companion star nearby and gives itself a destructive bout of thermonuclear indigestion. Robin George Andrews, Smithsonian Magazine, 30 May 2025 The details surrounding Eisenhower’s immediate treatment remain a mystery, though Newton suggests that may have had more do with protecting his personal physician, who misdiagnosed the heart attack as a bout of indigestion, than a purposeful attempt to mislead the public. Mark Z. Barabak, Los Angeles Times, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for indigestion

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of indigestion was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Indigestion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/indigestion. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

indigestion

noun
in·​di·​ges·​tion ˌin-dī-ˈjes-chən How to pronounce indigestion (audio)
-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 How to pronounce indigestion (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on indigestion

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