Consume

Definition

Consume is a verb that means to use up, ingest, or absorb something completely. It can refer to the act of eating or drinking, utilizing resources, or being overwhelmed by an emotion or activity.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈsuːm/
• Respelling: kuhn-SOOM

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈsjuːm/
• Respelling: kuhn-SYOOM

Etymology

The word "consume" originates from the Latin "consumere," meaning "to use up, take wholly, or destroy," which combines "con-" (together) and "sumere" (to take). The term entered Middle English in the 14th century with meanings related to using up resources or ingesting food.

Derivatives

• Consumer (noun)
• Consumption (noun)
• Consumable (adjective)
• Consuming (adjective)
• Consumed (adjective)

Synonyms

• Use
• Ingest
• Absorb

Antonyms

• Preserve
• Save
• Conserve

Usage

The term "consume" is used in various contexts, such as eating or drinking, using resources, or being overtaken by something. For example, "The family will consume the entire meal," or "He was consumed by guilt."

Related Terms

• Utilize: To make practical or effective use of something.
• Devour: To eat or use up quickly and eagerly.
• Spend: To pay out or use up resources.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To eat, drink, or ingest: Refers to the act of taking food or drink into the body.
  • Example: "They consumed a large amount of food at the feast."
• To use up a resource: Describes the process of depleting or exhausting a resource or supply.
  • Example: "The car consumes a lot of fuel."
• To completely occupy or overwhelm: Refers to being overtaken by an emotion, idea, or activity.
  • Example: "He was consumed by his passion for art."