digestion

noun

di·​ges·​tion dī-ˈjes-chən 

də-,

-ˈjesh-

: the action, process, or power of digesting: such as

a

: the process of making food absorbable by mechanically and enzymatically breaking it down into simpler chemical compounds in the digestive tract

b

: the process in sewage treatment by which organic matter in sludge is decomposed by anaerobic bacteria with the release of a burnable mixture of gases

Examples of digestion in a Sentence

an enzyme that aids in the digestion of protein

She began to suffer from poor digestion as she grew older.

Recent Examples on the Web

The peel packs more fiber than the fruit inside, which helps with digestion and promotes gut health. —Nick Blackmer, Verywell Health, 19 Apr. 2024

During digestion, physiological responses are triggered in the brain by the vagus nerve, contributing to the feeling of fullness. —Andrew Chapman, Longreads, 18 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

digestion

noun

di·​ges·​tion dī-ˈjes-chən 

də-

: the process by which food is broken down into simpler forms in the body by mechanical and enzymatic means

Medical Definition

digestion

noun

di·​ges·​tion dī-ˈjes(h)-chən, də- 

: the action, process, or power of digesting

especially : the process of making food absorbable by mechanically and enzymatically breaking it down into simpler chemical compounds in the digestive tract