1
a
: the act or process of consuming
consumption of food
consumption of resources
b
: use by or exposure to a particular group or audience
The document was not intended for public consumption.
2
: use of something
the jet's high consumption of fuel
the consumption of electricity
3
b
: a progressive wasting away of the body especially from pulmonary tuberculosis

Examples of consumption in a Sentence

The jet's high fuel consumption makes it expensive to operate.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For public consumption, that was in order to support fellow Democrats. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 18 Oct. 2026 These substances can cause wildlife mortality either through contact, consumption or inhalation. — Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 18 Oct. 2026 Install solar lights around patios, pathways, and outdoor areas to reduce energy consumption. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 17 Oct. 2026 During testing, the team measured and monitored energy consumption, but also checked that warmth was evenly distributed throughout each test building. — Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 17 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for consumption

Word History

Etymology

Middle English consumpcioun, from Latin consumption-, consumptio, from consumere — see consume

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of consumption was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Consumption.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/consumption. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

consumption

noun
1
a
: the act or process of consuming
b
: the amount consumed
2
a
: a gradual and continuous wasting away of the body especially from tuberculosis of the lungs

Medical Definition

consumption

noun
1
: a progressive wasting away of the body especially from pulmonary tuberculosis
2

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