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.
However, a normal cup of green tea is less concentrated than green tea extract, so the effect on starch digestion may be less pronounced.8 3. Sarah Bence, Verywell Health, 6 June 2025 Like protein, fiber slows digestion, leading to a slower, steadier rise in blood sugar.34 Sources of protein include: Sources of fiber include: Fruits Vegetables Nuts Seeds 2. Jillian Kubala, Health, 3 June 2025 Intermediate-term momentum is positive and strengthening per the weekly MACD, suggesting recent digestion will be brief and give way to additional upside follow-through. Katie Stockton, CNBC, 2 June 2025 The gut microbiome is the diverse community of trillions of microorganisms such as bacteria that live in the digestive tract, playing a vital role in digestion and immune function. Akshay Syal, NBC news, 31 May 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 12 Jun. 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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