the act of consuming, as by use, decay, or destruction.

the amount consumed

the high consumption of gasoline.

Economics . the using up of goods and services having an exchangeable value.

Pathology .

Older Use . tuberculosis of the lungs.

progressive wasting of the body.

noun

fasting , starvation

noun

burning , consuming , damage , decay , decrease , depletion , desolation , destruction , devastation , diminution , dispersion , dissipation , drinking , eating , exhaustion , expenditure , loss , misuse , ruin , swallowing , using up , utilization , waste , wear and tear , usage , use , phthisic , phthisis , white plague , devouring , tuberculosis