digestive system

noun

1. the system by which ingested food is acted upon by physical and chemical means to provide the body with absorbable nutrients and to excrete waste products; in mammals the system includes the alimentary canal extending from the mouth to the anus, and the hormones and enzymes assisting in digestion.

digestive system

1. The alimentary canal together with the salivary glands, liver, pancreas, and other organs of digestion.

digestive system

1. The organs and glands in the body that are responsible for digestion. The digestive system begins with the mouth and extends through the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine, ending with the rectum and anus. Other organs in this system include the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and appendix.

Word History and Origins

Origin of digestive system¹

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

It can affect several organs but especially the lungs and the digestive system.

From BBC

One parent told the BBC that he was worried about the long-term effects of lead poisoning on his son's liver and digestive system.

From BBC

The good bacteria seem to be coming from the end of the mother's digestive system, an idea known in the field as the "first lick".

From BBC

The 14-year-old's digestive system cannot tolerate lipids - fatty compounds or oils which are found in foods - so he has them injected directly into his heart.

From BBC

Around 14,000 of the prisoners died after liberation, their digestive systems unable to cope with the high calorific, rich, sustenance offered by well-meaning cooks and medics.

From BBC