noun (n)

• (physiology) the organic process of nourishing or being nourished; the processes by which an organism assimilates food and uses it for growth and maintenance(noun.process)

  source: wordnet30
• a source of materials to nourish the body(noun.food)

  Synonym:
  aliment, alimentation, nourishment, nutriment, sustenance, victuals
  

  source: wordnet30
• the scientific study of food and drink (especially in humans)(noun.cognition)

  source: wordnet30
• 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.(noun)

  source: webster1913