\Nu*tri"tion\, n. [Cf. F. nutrition. See
{Nutritious}.]
1. (Physiol.) In the broadest sense, a process or series of
   processes by which the living organism as a whole (or its
   component parts or organs) is maintained in its normal
   condition of life and growth.

Note: In this wide sense it comprehends digestion,
      absorption, circulation, assimilation, etc., in fact
      all of the steps by which the nutritive matter of the
      food is fitted for incorporation with the different
      tissues, and the changes which it undergoes after its
      assimilation, prior to its excretion. See {Metabolism}.

2. (Physiol.) In a more limited sense, the process by which
   the living tissues take up, from the blood, matters
   necessary either for their repair or for the performance
   of their healthy functions.

3. That which nourishes; nutriment.

         Fixed like a plant, on his peculiar spot, To draw
         nutrition, propagate, and rot.        --Pope.