Swallowing: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this term to describe the general act of moving something from the mouth to the stomach. It is neutral and commonly used in both medical and everyday situations.

• She had trouble swallowing after the surgery.
• Swallowing a pill can be difficult for some people.

This is a more technical or medical term that refers to the process of taking something into the body through the mouth. It is often used in scientific or healthcare settings.

• The ingestion of toxic substances can be dangerous.
• Proper ingestion of medications is essential for their effectiveness.

This term often implies taking in something quickly and in large amounts. It can describe both drinking and eating, usually in an urgent or hurried manner.

• He gulped down the whole glass of water after his run.
• She gulped nervously before giving her speech.

This is a very rarely used term and often has a negative connotation, implying excessive or voracious consumption. It can suggest gluttony or binge eating.

• His ingurgitation during meals was alarming to his friends.
• The documentary highlighted the ingurgitation of junk food in modern society.

Repeated entry for emphasis: The mechanical process of moving something from the mouth into the stomach.

• "He made a loud noise while swallowing his drink
• "

This is a broader term that can be used to describe the act of using up resources, but when related to food, it means eating or drinking. It often has a formal tone.

• "The consumption of junk food is often linked to health problems
• "

This is a medical or scientific term used to describe the process of taking substances into the body through the mouth. It's often used in medical or formal contexts.

• "The ingestion of harmful chemicals can cause serious health problems
• "

This word has a stronger, more intense connotation and means to eat something very quickly and eagerly, often in a way that shows hunger or greed.

• "He was devouring his meal as if he hadn't eaten in days
• "

Used in a more scientific or medical context to describe the act of taking a substance into the body by swallowing it. Formal and technical.

• The patient ingested the medication as prescribed
• Researchers found that ingesting small amounts of plastic can be harmful

Used when someone is drinking or eating something quickly, often in a hurry or with large mouthfuls. It has an informal tone.

• He gulped down his coffee before rushing out the door
• She was so hungry she gulped down her meal in minutes

Used in a broader sense that includes eating, drinking, or using up resources. This word can be formal.

• He consumes a lot of energy drinks
• The fire consumed the entire building