digestion

noun

di·​ges·​tion dī-ˈjes-chən How to pronounce digestion (audio)
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
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.
Slower digestion also helps slow the release of sugar into your blood, preventing sugar spikes.123 Bone Health Greek yogurt and cottage cheese contain several nutrients that are important for bone health, including protein and calcium. Jillian Kubala, Health, 4 Mar. 2025 Probiotics are essential, because travel can do weird things to digestion. Quince Mountain, Outside Online, 1 Mar. 2025 Apple cider vinegar may also affect digestion for some people by slowing the rate of gastric emptying.7 Medication and Supplement Interactions Apple cider vinegar may interact with some common medications and supplements. Elizabeth Barnes, Verywell Health, 24 Feb. 2025 Research has also shown that when poorly water-soluble drugs are combined with human or cow’s milk, digestion of the milk increases drug solubility. Paul McClure 13, New Atlas, 13 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for digestion

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of digestion was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Digestion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/digestion. Accessed 15 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

digestion

noun
di·​ges·​tion dī-ˈjes-chən How to pronounce digestion (audio)
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- How to pronounce digestion (audio)
: 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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