di·ges·tion
/dəˈjesCH(ə)n,dīˈjesCH(ə)n/
noun
the process of breaking down food by mechanical and enzymatic action in the alimentary canal into substances that can be used by the body.
synonyms: breaking down, maceration, dissolution; More
a person's capacity to break down food into substances that can be used by the body.
plural noun: digestions
"bouts of dysentery impaired his digestion"
CHEMISTRY
the process of treating a substance by means of heat, enzymes, or a solvent to promote decomposition or extract essential components.