Consume

Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

UK: /kənˈsjuːm/

US: /kənˈsuːm/

Definitions

• To use up a resource or material completely.
• To eat, drink, or ingest food or beverages.
• To completely destroy or engulf, especially by fire.
• To absorb or take in fully.

Usage Examples

• He consumes a lot of energy drinks during exams.
• The fire quickly consumed the entire building.
• Modern media consumption has changed with the rise of streaming services.

Etymology

From Latin "consumere," meaning "to take up completely, use up, waste," from "com-" (altogether) + "sumere" (to take).

Synonyms

• Devour
• Ingest
• Expend
• Exhaust
• Engulf

Antonyms

• Preserve
• Save
• Replenish
• Generate

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: "kun-SYUUM" with a distinct "y" sound.
• American English: "kun-SOOM" with a smoother vowel sound.

Historical Usage

The word "consume" has been used since the 14th century in relation to eating and drinking, later extending to economic and environmental contexts.

Cultural Nuances

"Consume" has different connotations in various cultures. In sustainability discussions, it is often associated with wastefulness, while in economic contexts, it refers to purchasing goods and services.

More Information

The concept of consumption plays a significant role in modern economies, environmental sustainability, and human health. The balance between responsible consumption and overconsumption remains a global challenge.