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
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.
The museum’s collection includes centuries-old books and a bottle of ambergris (a substance produced in the digestive system of sperm whales), as well as elaborations on perfume’s long history. Shauna Lyon, New Yorker, 4 July 2025 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, 13 June 2025 They’re packed with good-for-you probiotics that can support a healthy digestive system, along with other nutrients. Lauren Manaker Ms, Health, 11 June 2025 This may be especially relevant for individuals with sensitive digestive systems or gastrointestinal conditions. Daryl Austin, USA Today, 8 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for digestive system

Word History

First Known Use

1790, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of digestive system was in 1790

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Cite this Entry

“Digestive system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/digestive%20system. Accessed 10 Jul. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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