| the system by which ingested food is acted upon by physical and chemical means to provide the body with absorbable nutrients and to excrete waste products; in mammals the system includes the alimentary canal extending from the mouth to the anus, and the hormones and enzymes assisting in digestion. |
digestive system  (click for larger image in new window) n. The alimentary canal and digestive glands regarded as an integrated system responsible for the ingestion, digestion, and absorption of food. |
The organs and glands in the body that are responsible for digestion. The digestive system begins with the mouth and extends through the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine, ending with the rectum and anus. Other organs in this system include the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and appendix.
digestive system n.
The alimentary canal and digestive glands regarded as an integrated system responsible for the ingestion, digestion, and absorption of foodstuffs and the elimination of associated wastes. Also called alimentary system.