# feeding

/ˈfidɪŋ/ (US) · /fˈiːdɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/feeding
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. giving food

noun · CEFR A2

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

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

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

noun · CEFR B2

the act of eating, especially for animals.

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

- The birds are in a feeding frenzy near the surface of the water.
- Marine biologists observed the whales' feeding habits to determine if the rising water temperatures were affecting their migration patterns.

### 3. machine supply

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

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

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

- Be careful with the paper feeding so the printer doesn't get stuck.
- The automated feeding system ensures that the furnace receives a steady stream of coal without manual intervention.

## Examples

- The morning feeding starts at six o'clock.
- The zookeeper explained that the public is not allowed to watch the lion feeding for safety reasons.
- Establishing a consistent feeding schedule is essential for the health of newborn animals, as it helps regulate their digestive systems and ensures steady growth.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.