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feeding

n.
US //ˈfidɪŋ// UK //fˈiːdɪŋ// feed·ing
  1. 1 giving food (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    the act of giving food to a baby or an animal.

    the act or process of providing nourishment, especially to an infant or livestock.

    Example

    The baby is much calmer now that we have a regular feeding schedule.

    Example

    The zookeeper explained that the afternoon feeding is the best time for visitors to observe the lions' social dynamics.

    Usage

    Often used as a modifier before another noun, such as 'feeding time' or 'feeding tube'.
  2. 2 eating (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Science

    the act of eating, especially for animals.

    the act or process of consuming food; frequently used in biological contexts regarding animal behaviour.

    Example

    The birds are in a feeding frenzy near the surface of the water.

    Example

    Marine biologists observed the whales' feeding habits to determine if the rising water temperatures were affecting their migration patterns.
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  1. 3 machine supply (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Technical

    the process of putting material into a machine so it can work.

    the continuous or systematic supply of raw material into a processing mechanism.

    Example

    Be careful with the paper feeding so the printer doesn't get stuck.

    Example

    The automated feeding system ensures that the furnace receives a steady stream of coal without manual intervention.
Origin

By surface analysis, feed + -ing.

Idioms1 entry

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