Digest

Part of Speech

Noun, Verb

Pronunciation

/ˈdaɪ.dʒɛst/ (noun), /daɪˈdʒɛst/ (verb)

Definitions

• As a noun: A collection of written material summarized for easy reference.
• As a verb: To break down food in the stomach; to understand or absorb information.

Usage Examples

• Noun: "She read a monthly digest of current events."
• Verb: "He needed time to digest the complex report."

Etymology

Derived from Latin digestus, meaning "arranged" or "divided," from digerere, meaning "to distribute."

Synonyms

Summary, Compilation, Abstract, Compendium

Antonyms

Expansion, Elaboration, Dispersal

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /ˈdaɪ.dʒɛst/ (noun), /dɪˈdʒɛst/ (verb)
• American English: /ˈdaɪ.dʒɛst/ (noun), /daɪˈdʒɛst/ (verb)
• Australian English: Similar to British English

Historical Usage

The term "digest" has been used since the 14th century to refer to a summary of laws or written material.

Cultural Nuances

In media, "Reader's Digest" is a famous magazine offering summarized articles. The word also carries metaphorical meanings, such as "digesting" news or emotions.

More Information

The ability to digest information effectively is key in learning and comprehension. Digests are commonly used in legal contexts, journalism, and academia to provide concise versions of lengthy texts. The process of food digestion is also an essential biological function, involving enzymes and chemical reactions to break down nutrients for the body's use.