feeding

noun

feed·​ing ˈfē-diŋ How to pronounce feeding (audio)
Synonyms of feedingnext
1
: the act or process of eating or being fed
For a while zoos tried to control feeding by providing vending machines with pellets, but most have now banned it entirely.—Phillip T. Robinson
—often used before another noun
a feeding schedule
feeding behavior
2
: an instance of feeding
two a.m. feedings
ready for a feeding

Examples of feeding in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Fungus gnats thrive in damp potting soil, laying eggs that develop into larvae feeding on fungi and organic matter. — Leah Chester-Davis, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Aug. 2026 More than 19,400 children were screened and treated for acute malnutrition; 163,000 caregivers received counseling on infant and young child feeding. — Sarah Ferguson, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026 Lebson said he has been moved from a prison to a civilian hospital, where he is hooked up to a feeding tube and handcuffed to a bed. — Michael Casey, Los Angeles Times, 7 Aug. 2026 Identify a partner, family member, trusted pet sitter or vet tech who can step in for feedings, care routines or emergencies. — Pat Mueller, USA Today, 7 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for feeding

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of feeding was before the 12th century

Phrases Containing feeding

Rhymes for feeding

See All Rhymes for feeding

Browse Nearby Words

feed-in
feeding
feeding board
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Feeding.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/feeding. Accessed 10 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on feeding

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for feeding

Nglish: Translation of feeding for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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