often attributive
1
a
: material consisting essentially of protein, carbohydrate, and fat used in the body of an organism to sustain growth, repair, and vital processes and to furnish energy
also
: such food together with supplementary substances (such as minerals, vitamins, and condiments)
drought victims who don't have enough food to eat
b
: inorganic substances absorbed by plants in gaseous form or in water solution
2
: nutriment in solid form
She gave food and drink to the hungry travelers.
3
: something that nourishes, sustains, or supplies
food for thought
Books were his mental food.
foodlessness
noun
Cite this Entry
“Food.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/food. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.
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