Source: The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Nutrition \Nu*tri"tion\, n. [Cf. F. nutrition. See
Nutritious.]
1. (Physiol.) In the broadest sense, a process or series of
processes by which a living organism as a whole (or its
component parts or organs) is maintained in its normal
condition of life and growth.
[1913 Webster]
Note: In this wide sense it comprehends digestion,
absorption, circulation, assimilation, etc., in fact
all of the steps by which the nutritive matter of the
food is fitted for incorporation with the different
tissues, and the changes which it undergoes after its
assimilation, prior to its excretion. See Metabolism.
[1913 Webster]
2. (Physiol.) In a more limited sense, the process by which
the living tissues take up, from the blood, matters
necessary either for their repair or for the performance
of their healthy functions.
[1913 Webster]
3. That which nourishes; nutriment.
[1913 Webster]
Fixed like a plant, on his peculiar spot,
To draw nutrition, propagate, and rot. --Pope.
[1913 Webster]
nutrition
n 1: (physiology) the organic process of nourishing or being
nourished; the processes by which an organism
assimilates food and uses it for growth and maintenance
2: a source of materials to nourish the body [syn: nutriment,
nourishment, sustenance, aliment, alimentation, victuals]
3: the scientific study of food and drink (especially in
humans)
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