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
These fibers are known to slow digestion, support healthy cholesterol levels and feed beneficial gut bacteria.
—
Daryl Austin, USA Today, 4 Apr. 2026
Chia and ground flaxseeds absorb water and swell significantly, increasing volume and forming a gel in your digestive system that helps slow digestion.
—Lauren Panoff, Verywell Health, 3 Apr. 2026
This hormone helps to slow digestion and promote feelings of fullness, which reduces appetite.
—Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 1 Apr. 2026
Light activity after a meal can aid digestion and curb the sharp rise in blood sugar, helping food pass through and get broken down more easily.
—Desireé Oostland, Vogue, 31 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for digestion
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Daryl Austin, USA Today, 4 Apr. 2026
Chia and ground flaxseeds absorb water and swell significantly, increasing volume and forming a gel in your digestive system that helps slow digestion.
—Lauren Panoff, Verywell Health, 3 Apr. 2026
This hormone helps to slow digestion and promote feelings of fullness, which reduces appetite.
—Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 1 Apr. 2026
Light activity after a meal can aid digestion and curb the sharp rise in blood sugar, helping food pass through and get broken down more easily.
—Desireé Oostland, Vogue, 31 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for digestion
Cite this Entry
“Digestion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/digestion. Accessed 5 Apr. 2026.
Copy CitationKids 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
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