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

As well, a 0.5 gram cut from the pulp of each rock sample is dissolved by aqua regia acid digestion and analyzed by mass spectrometry for a suite of 51 additional elements. —Kansas City Star, 28 May 2024

The six variations, Lemon, Lavender, Tea Tree, Peppermint, Frankincense, and Immunity Blend can help relieve stress, boost immunity, fight infections, support digestion, improve concentration, increase energy levels, alleviate aches and pains, promote sleep, and more. —Tracy Yochum, Miami Herald, 23 May 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