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

Magnesium oxide: Often taken for constipation or indigestion. —Boutayna Chokrane, Wired News, 1 Sep. 2025

Women are more likely to have plaque in the heart’s smaller blood vessels and can have more unusual symptoms of a heart attack such as back pain, indigestion and shortness of breath. —Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 30 Aug. 2025

Perhaps the alligators were suffering indigestion because of their new diet. —Paul Bedard, The Washington Examiner, 30 Aug. 2025

Antacids These drugs neutralize stomach acid and help to manage indigestion and ulcers. —Mira Miller, Verywell Health, 25 Aug. 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