Consumption Meaning

UK /kənˈsʌmpʃən/
US /kənˈsʌmpʃən/
Word Definition
consumption meaning

Consumption Definition & Usage

noun

The act of consuming, using up, or devouring something, typically food, goods, or services.

Examples

  • "The consumption of processed foods has increased significantly in recent years."
  • "Energy consumption worldwide is a major concern for environmentalists."
  • "She decided to limit her consumption of sugary drinks to stay healthier."
  • "The city's water consumption has been rising due to the ongoing drought."
  • "Rapid technological consumption is changing the way people interact with information."
noun

The process of taking in food or drink, especially in the context of diet or health.

Examples

  • "Excessive consumption of alcohol can lead to serious health problems."
  • "The doctor recommended reducing the consumption of high-fat foods to prevent heart disease."
  • "She monitored her daily consumption of vitamins and minerals closely."
  • "During the flu season, it's important to control your consumption of sugary snacks to boost immunity."
  • "Dietary consumption patterns have shifted towards more plant-based meals in recent years."
noun

A now-obsolete term historically used to refer to a wasting disease, especially tuberculosis.

Examples

  • "In the 19th century, 'consumption' was a common term for tuberculosis."
  • "Many people in the Victorian era succumbed to consumption due to a lack of effective treatments."
  • "He had a delicate constitution and suffered from consumption in his youth."
  • "Consumption was one of the most feared diseases of the 1800s."
  • "She contracted consumption after a prolonged exposure to damp environments."

Cultural Context

The word 'consumption' has evolved over centuries. Originally, it referred to the act of using up resources or food, but in the 18th and 19th centuries, it became synonymous with tuberculosis due to the wasting nature of the disease. In modern times, the term is more commonly used in the context of economics, health, and environmental concerns. It also plays a central role in discussions about sustainability, energy, and modern consumption patterns.

The Price of Excess

Story

The Price of Excess

It was a summer afternoon, and the city was humming with life. Inside a crowded café, Emma sipped her iced coffee, glancing at her phone. The news was full of alarming statistics: global energy consumption had hit an all-time high, and water shortages were threatening large cities worldwide. She sighed, reflecting on how little most people thought about what they consumed. For years, she'd been trying to reduce her consumption of single-use plastics, but even the smallest changes felt insignificant. Just then, her friend Luke joined her at the table, a plastic water bottle in hand. 'You know, Luke,' she said, 'we really need to start thinking about how much we consume, from our food to our energy. It's not just about our health anymore, it's about the planet.' Luke nodded, but his eyes lingered on his phone. 'Yeah, yeah,' he muttered, 'but did you hear about the new movie streaming service? Talk about consumption.' Emma chuckled. The more things changed, the more some things stayed the same. 'That's the kind of consumption we should really be cutting back on,' she said, half-joking, but with a serious edge. 'If only we could consume a little less of everything.'

The Price of Excess