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

Scientists from New Zealand, Italy and Japan found that two kiwis a day helped participants have more frequent and complete bowel movements and helped alleviate abdominal pain, indigestion and straining while going to the bathroom. —Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 13 July 2025

But even this monstrous black hole can't stomach so much matter, leading to some serious indigestion in the form of outflows travelling at around 0.27 times the speed of light. —Robert Lea, Space.com, 23 June 2025

When used over extended periods or in large amounts, apple cider vinegar can create health issues, ranging from tooth erosion to indigestion. —Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 17 June 2025

For centuries, folklore and popular wisdom have linked poor eating habits and indigestion to nightmares and restless sleep. —Jeffrey Kluger, Time, 1 July 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