Main Entry: con·sume Pronunciation: k&n-'süm Function: verb Inflected Form(s): con·sumed; con·sum·ing Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French or Latin; Middle French consumer, from Latin consumere, from com- + sumere to take up, take, from sub- up + emere to take -- more at SUB-, REDEEM transitive verb 1 : to do away with completely : DESTROY (fire consumed several buildings) 2 : to enjoy avidly : DEVOUR (mysteries, which she consumes for fun -- E. R. Lipson) 3 : to engage fully : ENGROSS (consumed with curiosity) intransitive verb 1 : to waste or burn away : PERISH